7th October, 2009

7th October, 2009.

Dear Parent/Carer,

School Attendance and Lateness

What is the problem?

Disappointingly, last years the school attendance figures were lower than in previous years.

Attendance is a factor often linked to low levels of academic success. Pupils also have difficulty maintaining friendships if they have long or numerous periods of absence.

What is the school’s policy?

The school’s policy is that no more 10 days absence can be authorised in any academic year.

It is a parent’s legal responsibility to ensure their child is in school, and the School Governors have decided that the school must take action against parents and carers of children who are absent from school without authorisation.

Ongoing unauthorised absence could lead to a Penalty Notice! This is a fine of £50.00 if paid within the first 28 days and £100 if paid within 42 days. If the fine is not paid within 42 days parents could be prosecuted.

Lateness is also a significant problem. Children are expected to be in line, with their class, at 8.55am. Where children are persistently late the school will be contacting parents and carers immediately and taking appropriate action to ensure it does not continue.

We have to take tough action because poor attendance and lateness is damaging the learning of too many children in the school.

Yours sincerely,



Matt Condon, Headteacher