Attendance and Punctuality

To succeed and achieve their full potential, a student must be present in the classroom. We expect the highest standards of attendance and punctuality and are always happy to support families in ensuring the best attendance for our pupils. Research evidence and national statistics link good attendance to the achievement of academic and social potential. Attendance and punctuality also help to develop friendships, team values, career pathways and good life skills.

We encourage all students to work towards 100% attendance and set a minimum attendance target of 97% per year (equivalent to the top quartile of all English secondary schools). This permits 5 days of absence within one academic year. Excellent attendance is celebrated and recognised at the end of each term at our awards assembly. Students who do not meet our 97% target may be required to complete Summer School to ensure that their academics do not fall behind.

In line with national guidelines and rules, we do not permit students to take exceptional leave during term time as this has a very negative impact on their learning. Should you wish to make such a request this should be in writing.

98-100% Your child is accessing almost all learning opportunities
96-97% Your child is missing very few learning opportunities
94-95%

There is a risk of underachievement for your child

Up to 10 school days are missed in an academic year which is equivalent of up to 60 lessons or 300 lessons over a 5-year period.
92-93%

Your child has a high risk of underachievement

Up to 15 school days absent in the academic year which is equivalent of up to 90 lessons or 450 lessons over a 5-year period.
90-92%

High risk of severe underachievement

Up to 19 school days absent in the academic year which is equivalent of up to 114 lessons or 570 lessons over a 5-year period
Less than 90%

There is a high risk of severe underachievement for your child

This is upwards of 22 school days absent in the academic year which is equivalent of at least 132 lessons and at least 660 lessons throughout your child’s time at the school