Attendance Policy

At our school, we believe that every school day matters. Regular attendance and punctuality give children the very best chance to learn, grow in confidence, and enjoy all that school has to offer.

We know that children sometimes feel unwell or that family challenges can make getting to school difficult. That’s why we always encourage open communication and work in partnership with families. Together, we can help every child reach their potential.

Lateness

Arriving on time sets a positive start for the day and ensures children don’t miss key learning. It may not seem much, but being just 5 minutes late every day adds up to three full school days lost each year. Over time, this has a real impact on progress.

We ask families to make punctuality a daily priority. If you are finding mornings difficult, please let us know so we can support you.

Reporting Absence or Lateness

• Please notify the school by phone or written note if your child is absent or late.
• If we do not hear from you, we will contact you — this is part of our safeguarding responsibility to check that every child is safe.
• In some cases, we may request evidence of medical appointments (e.g. an appointment card or prescription).

Medical Appointments

We kindly ask that routine medical or dental appointments are arranged outside of school hours wherever possible. If an appointment during the school day is unavoidable:

• Please let the school know in advance.
• Children must be signed out at the school office by a parent/carer and signed back in if they return later the same day.

Holidays During Term Time

We understand that family time is important, but holidays taken during term time cause significant disruption to a child’s education.

In line with government guidance, we are unable to authorise term-time holidays except in exceptional circumstances. Requests must be made in writing to the Headteacher, who will consider each case individually. Please note that holidays taken without permission will be recorded as unauthorised absences and may result in further action.

To help families plan ahead, our term dates are published on the school website.

Celebrating Attendance

We are proud of the commitment our families make to ensuring children attend regularly and arrive on time. To recognise this, we have a number of awards and certificates that celebrate excellent attendance.

We also understand that every family’s circumstances are different. If you are finding attendance difficult, please come and talk to us — we are here to listen and to work with you to find solutions.

For information on Portsmouth's 'Miss School Miss Out' campaign, click below.