Attendance and Holiday

It is very difficult for children to learn if they are not in school! Regular and punctual attendance ensures that your child is able to make the most of his/her school life, whilst infrequent or late attendance leads to children feeling constantly behind with their school work.

In accordance with the Education Act 1996, is the duty of parents/carers to ensure the regular attendance of their child in school. This means that she/he must be in attendance and on time every day unless she/he is ill or there is any other unavoidable cause.

There will be times when your child is unable to attend school because of unavoidable causes. We ask you to inform us on the first day if your child is unable to attend school. We will also ask you the reason and expected duration of the absence. 

If Your Child Is Ill
In the event that your child is ill we request that you keep them at home until they are feeling better, especially in the case of infectious diseases in line with the LA guidelines.

We request that all parents provide us with an emergency contact telephone number so that you can be notified if your child becomes ill during the school day.
  

Attendance

The government has set a minimum attendance target of 95%. This means that a two week family holiday will take children’s attendance below the government guidelines. We are always concerned about the amount of school time pupils miss and would ask parents to consider carefully their child’s academic progress before booking family holidays in term time.


Local Authorities are charged in law with enforcing school attendance. If you wish to obtain more information or advice please contact the Education Welfare Service in Alnwick, Northumberland.