Attendance & Absence
Sickness Absence
If a child is unwell and unable to attend school, parents must inform the school of the reason for a child’s absence on the first day by ringing the office and leaving a message on the dedicated absence line. Absences in excess of 5 days require a written parental note, or completion of the Sickness Absence Form This is in addition to the telephoned message.
Supporting Pupils at School with Medical Conditions Policy
Appointments for medical purposes, days of religious observance or other reasons
If a child is going to be absent for part of a school session for a doctor, dentist or other appointment the school must be notified in advance either by a written note or completion of the Appointments Absence Form
When collecting and returning a child for such purposes, parents should ensure that the class teacher and the office are aware. The ‘Signing In Book’ in the school reception must be completed.
Application for Leave of Absence
Please complete the online form if possible, at least 4 weeks before the date when the absence is to start. Before a decision is made, the following factors are taken into consideration:
- Attendance percentage
- Clash with test dates
- Educational progress
- Other educational factors
Please note: The regulations make it clear that a headteacher may not grant any leave of absence during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances.
For further information please contact the Access and Inclusion Service on 0300 300 6826.
Fixed penalty notices may be issued if the absence is not authorised and still taken. If a leave of absence request exceeds 5 school days (10 sessions), then the school can request a Fixed Penalty Notice be issued to both parents or carers.
Parents Guide To Non-Attendance
Medicine
On occasions, children return to school not having completed a course of treatment. A member of staff may administer prescription medicines at school, if a consent form is completed. Only medication prescribed by a GP specifically for the pupil can be given.
Parental Permission for the School to Administer Medicine Form (Short Term)
Parental Permission for the School to Administer Medicine Form {Long Term)
Illness and injury at school
When children have minor injuries during the day, general first aid procedures are followed in line with the school’s First Aid Policy. Staff qualifications are regularly updated.
If a child is taken ill at school, or injuries are more serious, every effort is made to contact parents.
Parents must ensure their child’s list of daytime contacts is up to date.
Medical Information
When children start school, parents/carers are required to complete medical information on the admission form. It is vital that this medical information is kept up to date since conditions, such as asthma and allergies can develop at any stage. Please inform the school office in writing if there are any changes, so that medical records can be amended and staff informed.
Health Checks
As part of the Healthy Child Programme, every child in Reception Year will be seen by a nurse to measure their height & weight.
Hearing
Hearing tests are part of the health screening process, upon request, or if a child is known to have problems.
