School Absence

What to Do If Your Child Is Unwell

If your child is unwell and unable to attend school, please could you inform us by telephoning 01403 891263. It is very useful if you can leave a message on the answerphone before 8.45am. However, you must ensure that the absence is reported by 9.10am, as this is when the registers are closed. The answerphone is on all day, so please leave a message at any time.

School Attendance and Absences

The law requires that parents must ensure that their children receive a full-time education that is appropriate to their age, ability and aptitude. This means that we can no longer grant authorisation for absence for family holidays. Leave may only be granted in exceptional circumstances.

If a request for a holiday or any other unauthorised reason for absence is made, it will be recorded as unauthorised.

If a child's unauthorised absence totals more than 5 full days the headteacher is obliged to refer the case to the Local Authority who will consider whether to issue a Fixed Penalty Notice and fine. We really don't want it to come to that so please co-operate and communicate with us as much as possible.

A Request for Absence form can be downloaded by clicking here.

Why Attendance Matters So Much

Did you know that your child only attends school for 190 days per year? That means there are 175 other days for holidays and all sorts of other fun activities.

Here is a breakdown of what attendance equals:

• 80% attendance is equal to your child missing approximately 1 day off each week
• 90% attendance is equal to your child missing approximately 1 day off each fortnight

We really do expect all children to have 95% attendance or above. Every day at school is valuable towards your child's learning and progress.

You can find out more information about attendance on the West Sussex County Council website.

If you have any questions regarding absences or attendance please do not hesitate to contact us.