Attendance

We want to make sure that children are at school as often as possible so that we can give them an excellent education. The law states that it is your responsibility as a parent to ensure that your child attends school regularly. Absence will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. If you need to request time off, please complete a special leave request form asking the headteacher for permission.

Why should children be in school?

• It is the law. Parents can be issued with penalty notices and further sanctions if this law is broken.
• They do not miss any learning and make better progress.
• They develop positive social relationships much more easily.
• They will do better in exams, and are more likely to get well paid jobs.
• It shows they are reliable. They will be safe and understand the importance of commitment.
• We really enjoy it when your children are here, and we love teaching them!

Holidays during school term time are against the law

There are 190 school days in a year – this leaves 175 days for time with family, cultural activities and holidays.

• Taking children on holiday or out of school during term time is against the law.
• We understand that holidays during term time may cost less money, but that is something we all have to face.
• Most of us have family members living some distance away from us that we need to visit from time to time.
• Term time holidays are a serious issue – the government is advising schools to take serious action where they need to in order to make sure they do not happen.
• The school is not allowed to authorise absence during term time, unless there are exceptional reasons. This does NOT include sickness of a family member.
• Taking unauthorised holidays could result in a penalty notice from the Local Authority.

What if my child is sick?

If your child is sick and likely to miss school, please let us know as soon as you can. We are willing and able to manage most minor illnesses and ailments here at Tufnell Park.