Regular attendance and punctuality are important to children's learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging at school. Being in school every day helps children to make progress, build friendships and take full advantage of the opportunities available to them. 

We understand that there may be times when children are unable to attend school. If you are experiencing difficulties with your child's attendance or punctuality, please speak to us. We will work with you to understand any barriers and offer support where we can. 

Our senior attendance champion is Mrs Emma Dickinson, and can be contacted via the school office: office@wiveliscombeprimary.com

Reporting an Absence

If your child is unable to attend school, please contact the school as soon as possible on the first day of absence, giving the reason for their absence. 

If an absence continues, please keep the school informed in accordance with our absence reporting procedures. 

The school is required to maintain accurate attendance records and to establish the reason for every absence. 

Lateness

Arriving at school on time helps children to have a settled and positive start to their day and ensure that they do not miss important learning. 

If your child arrives after the register has opened, they will be recorded as late. Arrival after the register has closed will be recorded in accordance with the statutory attendance codes and may count as an unauthorised absence. 

If punctuality becomes a concern, we will work with families to identify any difficulties and support improved attendance. 

Leave During Term Time

Parents and carers should avoid taking children out of school during term time. 

Headteachers may only grant a leave of absence during term time when exceptional circumstances apply. Each request will be considered individually, taking into account the specific circumstances of the request. 

If leave is granted, the Headteacher will determine the length of time the pupil may be absent. 

A family holiday would not normally be considered an exceptional circumstance. 

Requests for term-time leave should be made in advance using the school's Leave of Absence form, which is available from the school office. 

Medical and Dental Appointments

Where possible, routine medical and dental appointments should be arranged outside school hours. 

We recognise that this is not always possible. Where an appointment needs to take place during the school day, children should attend school before and/or after the appointment wherever practical so that they miss as little learning as possible. 

Please provide the school with details of the appointment, including a copy of the appointment confirmation. 

Attendance Support 

If you have any concerns about your child's attendance or punctuality, please contact us. Early conversations can help us to understand what is making attendance difficult and identify appropriate support. 

You can compare our attendance figures to other schools on the government website: 
Compare our attendance figures to other schools on GOV.UK website

For further information, please see our Attendance Policy below: