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Attendance and Punctuality
At Rolph Church of England Primary School we recognise that positive behaviour and good attendance are fundamental to raising standards and ensuring strong pupil progress. To enable pupils to gain maximum benefit from their education, it is essential that they attend school every day and arrive on time, unless absence is unavoidable.
Absence from school disrupts the continuity of learning and can have a significant impact on a pupil’s attainment and progress. Late arrival and absence also affect the teaching routine and may disrupt the learning of others within the class.
Each year, the Governing Body sets an attendance target for the school. Our aspirational attendance target for this academic year is 95%.
Where a pupil’s attendance falls below the expected standard, the school will take a supportive and proactive approach. Staff will work closely with parents and carers to identify any barriers to attendance and provide appropriate support. This may include regular communication, pastoral support, and tailored strategies to help the pupil re-engage with school. Our aim is to work in partnership with families to secure improved attendance and ensure every pupil flourishes by reaching their full potential.
Absence from School
If a pupil is unable to attend school due to illness or another valid reason, parents and carers are expected to inform the school as early as possible on the first day of absence. This includes absences for part of the day, such as medical or dental appointments.
If no reason for absence is received, the school will make contact with parents or carers as soon as possible after registration in order to fulfil safeguarding responsibilities and accurately record the reason for absence in line with government regulations.
If a pupil returns to school without prior notification of the reason for absence, parents or carers should provide this information promptly, either in person or in writing.
All absences are recorded as either authorised or unauthorised, in accordance with legal requirements. Absences will be unauthorised where no explanation is provided or where the reason given is not considered acceptable by the school.
Where a pupil is absent for several consecutive days, parents or carers are expected to maintain regular contact with the school. For absences of three days or more, medical evidence may be requested. This may include appointment confirmations, prescriptions, labelled medication, or hospital letters.
Leave of Absence During Term Time
The school strongly discourages absence during term time, as it can significantly impact a pupil’s education. However, we recognise that there may be exceptional circumstances, such as bereavement, where leave may be necessary.
In such cases, parents and carers must complete an Application for Leave of Absence form, available from the school office, in advance of the planned absence.
Return to School Following Illness
When a pupil returns to school following illness or a hospital stay, parents or carers should provide written information regarding any specific care or medical instructions required during the school day.
If written information is not immediately available, parents or carers should speak to a member of the school office team, who will record the instructions and request confirmation.
