Late/Absence Procedures

Attendance, Absence and Lateness

Regular attendance and punctuality help pupils feel settled, confident and ready to learn. We work closely with families to make sure pupils are in school every day unless they are genuinely unwell.

Reporting an Absence

If your child is unwell and cannot attend school, please contact the school office before 8:50am on the first day of absence.

Please telephone the school office on 01462 623388. If you are unable to call, you can also report the absence through the Arbor app.

If we do not receive a reason for absence, we will contact you. If we cannot reach you, we may carry out safeguarding checks, including a home visit, to make sure your child is safe.

Children who have been sick or had diarrhoea must stay at home for 48 hours after the last episode.

When should my child stay at home?

Children who have been sick or had diarrhoea must stay at home for 48 hours after the last episode.

If your child has a temperature of 38°C or above, they should stay at home. They can return when they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours, without fever-reducing medicine, and feel well enough for a normal school day.

This helps prevent illness spreading and gives your child time to recover properly before returning to school.

If symptoms continue or your child’s fever returns, please seek advice from your GP or NHS 111 before sending them back in.

Leave of absence during term time

All requests for leave during term time must be made in advance by completing an ‘Absence due to All Requests for leave during term time must be made in advance using an Absence due to Exceptional Circumstances form.

Schools can only authorise term-time absence in exceptional circumstances. When considering a request, the Headteacher will take into account the pupil’s attendance, the timing of the request, the impact on their progress and wellbeing, and any previous requests for leave.

Unauthorised absence may result in further action in line with Hertfordshire County Council and Department for Education guidance.

Lateness

The school bell rings at 8:45am and the school day begins at 8:50am.

Pupils arriving after 8:50am are recorded as late. If they arrive after the register has closed, this may be recorded as an unauthorised absence for that session.

Being on time helps pupils start the day calmly, reduces anxiety and protects valuable learning time.