Attendance

Every Day Matters

Good attendance makes a real difference to your child’s education, progress and wellbeing. Every day your child is in school is an opportunity to learn, make progress, build friendships and enjoy school life.

Even occasional days away can mean your child misses important learning, so every school day really does matter. Being in school every day helps your child to learn, progress and achieve.

We’re Here to Help

We understand that there are times when children may be unable to attend school. Sometimes there may be difficulties that make regular attendance challenging.

Please talk to us as soon as possible if you have concerns about your child’s attendance.

Our aim is to work with families, not against them. By talking to us early, we can understand what is happening and explore how we can support you and your child.

When attendance falls below 90%

If your child’s attendance falls below 90%, this will trigger the start of our absence procedures.

This does not mean that you are being judged or that you are on your own. Our procedures are designed to identify concerns early and provide appropriate support to families.

These procedures follow Surrey County Council guidance.

If you are worried about attendance, please speak to us. We are here to help.

What does 10 sessions of absence mean?

If your child has 10 sessions of unauthorised absence — usually equivalent to 5 school days — within a rolling 10-school-week period, the national threshold for a penalty notice has been met. The school must consider whether a penalty notice should be issued, in line with Surrey County Council and government guidance.

Holidays during term time

Holidays taken during term time will not normally be authorised, in line with government guidance. Please consider the impact that time away from school can have on your child’s learning and progress.

Thank you for your continued support in helping your child to attend school regularly and make the most of every opportunity that school provides.  Together, we can help every child to attend, learn, progress and thrive.