School attendance is very important to make sure that every child reaches their full potential not only academically but also socially and emotionally. We expect all children to attend school every day and to be in the playground at the start of the day. Periods of absence and poor punctuality are disruptive to the children’s learning and send poor messages about the value of education. We ask parents and carers to support us in ensuring their children do not miss out through unnecessary absences.

All pupils’ attendance and punctuality is monitored. Any child who attends school less than 90% of the time is considered to be a Persistent Absentee and a referral to Educational Welfare will be made for them. Further information can be found in the Department for Education's Working together to improve school attendance guidance and Bromley Council's School Attendance Advice.

Holidays
Holidays are expected to be taken during the school holidays and parents do not have a right to take their child(ren) out of school for holidays during term time. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of Headteacher. All requests for absence are treated sympathetically and only in exceptional circumstances will they be approved. A Leave of Absence form should be completed in the case of any request for leave, including holidays and should be emailed to the School Office. Holidays during term time are not allowed and will be classified as unauthorised.

Collection Arrangements
It is essential that the school knows if there is any change in collection arrangements for your child. Staff are available in the playground at the start and end of each day for you to talk to. Please ring the School Office on 020 8650 5247 before 2.30pm If there are any last minute changes, e.g. someone other than the person known to staff is to collect your child at the end of the day. Calling before 2.30pm is important as it allows time for us to get messages to classrooms before the end of the day.

Punctuality
All late arrivals to school must sign the late register in the entrance area. Failure to do so means that your child will remain absent on the school register and in the event of an emergency would be considered as absent. It could also mean that your child will not be included in the school meal numbers for the day.

Absences
If you know your child will be late or absent, for example due to a hospital appointment or school visit, please provide the office with the relevant appointment letter in advance of the absence. Letters regarding absence should be handed in to the office and not the class teacher. This will enable us to keep all documentation regarding  your child’s absences on file. Where possible, please make essential appointments after registration in the afternoon. All absences not reported to the school will be recorded as unauthorised, until the reason for your child not being at school is established.

Sickness
Please report your child’s absence in person or by telephone to the School Office on 020 8650 5247 before 9.00am. Please refer to National Health Service guidance if you are unsure whether your child should remain at home.