“The school has sharpened its work to make sure pupils attend school well. Some newer strategies have started to have a positive impact.” – Ofsted, November 2024
Our key aim at the College is to ensure excellent outcomes and life chances for all. A high level of attendance is crucial to achieving this. The more a student is present in college, the more likely it is that they will achieve their potential by minimising gaps in their learning and setting good habits for future employment.
For daily absence, please contact the school with a reason for absence either by phone on 01626 862318 or via the ParentMail app.
You can help your child’s attendance by taking holidays during school holiday times (no school or college can authorise requests for absence relating to holidays during term time), booking medical appointments outside of school hours wherever possible and encouraging students to attend even if they feel a little unwell as they usually perk up once they’re in school with their friends.
Any requests for planned absence should be made in writing to the Headteacher via Student Office. If the College refuses a request for term-time leave and the child is still taken out of school, this will be recorded as unauthorised absence. Each parent receives a penalty notice for each student who has unauthorised absence. If issued with a penalty notice, parents must pay £60 within 21 days or £120 within 28 days. The payment must be made directly to the local authority. If the payment has not been made after 28 days, the local authority can decide whether to prosecute the parent or withdraw the notice.
More information about attendance can be found here.