At Anstey Junior School we believe that regular school attendance is essential if children are to achieve their full potential. We value the attendance of all pupils. Missing out on lessons leaves children vulnerable to falling behind and can put them at risk of wider harm. There is a wide range of evidence as to the health and wellbeing benefits of school-age education. Research commissioned by the Department for Education shows missing school for even a day can mean a child is less likely to achieve good progress, which can have a damaging effect on their life chances. As set out in our attendance policy, we will work with families to identify the reasons for poor attendance and try to resolve any difficulties at the earliest opportunity.
Our attendance policy aims to give clear guidance to staff, parents, pupils, and governors to:
We recognise that attendance is a matter for the whole school community. Our attendance policy should not be viewed in isolation; it is a strand that runs through all aspects of school improvement, supported by our policies on safeguarding, prevention of bullying, behaviour, and inclusive learning. The attendance policy also considers the Human Rights Act 1998, the Equality Act 2010, UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and other relevant legislation.
Where a pupil has a verified and chronic health condition, we will aim to work with parents to ensure children have access to education and provide appropriate support in line with Supporting pupils with medical conditions at school and Hampshire policies regarding supporting children with health issues.
In September 2013 the Government introduced new legislation that headteachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances. This means that absences for holidays in term time are likely to be unauthorised. The Government guidance on the DfE website states that parents can be fined for taking their child on holiday during term time without consent from the school. From September 2015, Hampshire County Council has made the decision to fine any parent who has a child with 5 or more days of unauthorised absence. In this situation both parents will be fined. If a second unauthorised absence of 5 or more days occurs this will result in parents being taken to court.
For full details please read our attendance policy, available in the policy section of our website.