Attendance

Unauthorised Absences in Term Time

Due to a change in the law in 2013 we are unable to authorise any holidays in term time and we ask that pupils are not absent from school except in the most exceptional of circumstances.

All absence requests must be made in advance on the correct request form (Click Here) This is also available from Reception. If your request is not approved the school has the power to request that a Fixed Penalty Notice is sent to parents should the time still be taken off.         

Medical Absences

We understand that sometimes illness may prevent your child from attending school.

We ask that medical appointments be made outside of school hours where possible. Where this is not possible appointment cards can be brought into school for the absence to be authorised.

We are usually only able to authorise half a day for appointments except in exceptional circumstances. If you are unsure whether your child is able to attend due to illness, please contact us and we will always try to help. Many medical conditions can be sensitively managed in school to enable your child to continue their learning.

Attendance Fast Tracks

If your child’s attendance falls below 95% (without good reason) the school may initiate a Fast Track as a supportive measure. Absences will not be authorised during this time period without verification. You will be notified of a Fast Track via letter. Non improvement of attendance following a Fast Track may result in a Fixed Penalty Notice being issued by Leeds City Council.

Fixed Penalty Notices

Section 444 of the 1996 Education Act says that parents must ensure that their child attends school regularly & on time. If a parent fails to do this the school has the authority to issue a Fixed Penalty Notice. This is £60 and increases to £120 if not paid within 28 days. In more serious cases parents may face a fine of up to £2500 or a custodial sentence.

FAQs penalty notices

School Anxiety and/or Refusal

Where a child is unable to attend school through anxiety and/or refusal we would always encourage parents to access all the in school support available as well as support available online and in the community. Please see our safeguarding page and the student planner for links to support networks including Kooth.com which is an online counselling service.