At Lakeside we are committed to improving the attendance and punctuality of our children. It is only through maintaining a good level of attendance and punctuality that children can make the most of their opportunities at school. All children’s attendance is closely monitored and excellent attendance is rewarded through the giving of certificates. If we have concerns about a child’s attendance we will contact parents to offer support in how this can be improved.
Arriving on time for school is important as late arrivals are disruptive for the class and your child’s learning time.
Classroom doors open at 08.40 and close at 08:50. Late arrivals must come in through the office after 08:50.
Arrival after 09:30 is recorded as unauthorised. It is essential that your child is at school on time and ready to learn.
Every half-day absence from school, by law, has to be classified as either authorised or unauthorised. This is why information about the cause of absence is always asked for.
See the School Performance Comparison website for information on our school’s absence figures.
These are mornings or afternoons away from school for a valid reason such as illness, emergency medical or dental appointments (routine appointments should always be made out of school hours) and emergencies.
An absence is classified as Unauthorised if the reason was not recognised as acceptable. The Department for Education (DfE) and Local Education Authorities provide information for schools as to what is acceptable and what is not.
Examples of reasons that would not be accepted:
As a school, we are no longer allowed to authorise any requests for children to be taken out of school for a holiday during term time.
Requests for leave can only be granted in exceptional circumstances, and a holiday would not be considered exceptional. Requests for leave must also be made to the school in advance. To do this please come into the school office to complete the necessary Leave of Absence application or complete the form online.
Parents may receive a penalty notice if their child is absent from school without permission.
We appreciate the challenges that some parents face when booking holidays, particularly during the school holidays. However, regular attendance at school is vital in helping children and young people to achieve their full potential and get the best possible start in life.
