St Martin'sCE Primary School

Attendance and Punctuality

At St Martin’s, we want every child to fulfil their potential and flourish. Regular attendance and punctuality are essential because every day in school provides valuable opportunities to learn, build relationships and feel part of our school community.

We have high expectations for attendance and work closely with families to understand and remove any barriers that may prevent a child from attending regularly. Attendance is monitored carefully so that concerns can be identified early and the right support can be offered.

We ask parents and carers to:

• Ensure their child attends school every day and arrives on time.

• Contact the school promptly if their child is absent, explaining the reason.

• Arrange medical and dental appointments outside school hours wherever possible.

• Avoid taking holidays during term time.

• Speak to us as soon as possible if there are difficulties affecting their child’s attendance.

We recognise that some children may experience additional barriers to attendance, including pupils with medical needs or SEND. We will listen, work with families and, where appropriate, involve other services to provide support. However, we will also act where attendance does not improve or where absence is unauthorised.

Parents and carers receive their child’s attendance information half-termly. Attendance is also regularly reviewed by school leaders and governors.

Requests for Leave During Term Time

Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to ensure that children of compulsory school age attend school regularly.

Family holidays should be arranged during the school holidays. The Headteacher may only authorise leave during term time when there are exceptional circumstances. Each request will be considered individually.

Requests must be made in writing, using the school’s leave of absence form, at least two weeks before the proposed absence. Forms are available from the school office. Please provide as much information as possible about the circumstances of the request.

Unauthorised absence may result in further action, including a Penalty Notice, in line with Wiltshire Council’s attendance procedures.

Please read our Attendance Policy and Attendance Procedures for further information.