ATTENDANCE
At Dersingham, we firmly believe in the critical connection between consistent school attendance and successful learning outcomes. It is our conviction that effective learning is significantly hindered when children are absent. As such, we strive to ensure that every pupil fully engages with the educational opportunities provided, aiming to enhance standards through the promotion of regular attendance and punctuality.
We understand, however, that there are instances where absences or lateness are unavoidable. In such cases, our approach is to support both the child and their family. We also accommodate for religious observances and unique family situations. Consequently, the school does not approve of holidays during term time.
It is vital to continuously remind parents of the importance of regular attendance and its direct impact on academic achievement. The Education Act 1996 (Section 444) explicitly states that parents/carers have the primary responsibility to ensure their child's regular attendance at school. Non-compliance may be viewed as an offence.
Should your child be absent, please contact the school to speak with the Office or alternatively schedule to meet Sherwyn Cupido-Weaich the Head of Safeguarding, Pastoral and Welfare Teams.
At Dersingham, we firmly believe in the critical connection between consistent school attendance and successful learning outcomes. It is our conviction that effective learning is significantly hindered when children are absent. As such, we strive to ensure that every pupil fully engages with the educational opportunities provided, aiming to enhance standards through the promotion of regular attendance and punctuality.
We understand, however, that there are instances where absences or lateness are unavoidable. In such cases, our approach is to support both the child and their family. We also accommodate for religious observances and unique family situations. Consequently, the school does not approve of holidays during term time.
It is vital to continuously remind parents of the importance of regular attendance and its direct impact on academic achievement. The Education Act 1996 (Section 444) explicitly states that parents/carers have the primary responsibility to ensure their child's regular attendance at school. Non-compliance may be viewed as an offence.
Should your child be absent, please contact the school to speak with the Office or alternatively schedule to meet Sherwyn Cupido-Weaich the Head of Safeguarding, Pastoral and Welfare Teams.
Our Attendance Procedures - It is the parent's responsibility to inform the school office of the reason for a child’s absence on the first day.
- A letter will be sent home if a child’s attendance drops below 95%.
- The Attendance & Welfare Team will conduct a home visit if a child’s attendance falls below 90%.
The Local Authority may issue a penalty notice under the following circumstances:
- If a child’s attendance is below 90% in a term without valid reasons.
- Taking a child out of school during term time (e.g., for holidays) without prior agreement from the school.
- Delay in a child's return from leave not agreed upon with the school.
- Over 10 instances of arriving at school after the register has closed.
- A child is found in a public place during the first five days of an exclusion.
The fine is set at £60.00 per parent, per child, if paid within 21 days of receiving the notice. This amount increases to £120.00 if paid within 28 days. Failure to pay the fine may result in legal proceedings by the Local Authority.
If a child in your care has ten consecutive days of absence, without notifying the school, a referral may be made to the Local Authority for Children Missing Education or Children Missing Out on Education, which may result in your child being removed from the school roll.
For detailed information or to discuss specific concerns, please arrange a meeting with the Head of Safeguarding, Pastoral and Welfare Teams.
