Beech Hill School is committed to ensuring that children receive an education that they are entitled to. In order to make this happen, we have exceptionally high standards when it comes to attendance and punctuality and fully expect parents/ carers to support the school in making sure that all children arrive in school every day and on time.
As a school, we celebrate children’s successful attendance through assemblies and certificates for high attendance and improving attendance. Children are rewarded with treats and trips through the academic year.
If your child is unwell, please contact the school office on 01422 345004 before 9.00am providing a reason for absence. If we do not hear from you we will send a text message requesting you contact us by telephone or text message.
Please note that it is essential you contact the school on the first and every subsequent day of absence. Failure to do so will result in a home-visit by the school Attendance Officer or welfare check by the Police.
Every effort should be made to ensure that children are in school for the start of the school day (8.35am). Should there be an occasion that your child is going to be late in school, please contact the main office via telephone to explain the reason for your child’s lateness. When arriving to school, please report to the main office, providing reason and clarification as to why your child is late. Please provide any evidence (i.e. medical/appointment). Without supporting evidence, any absence through lateness will be marked as unauthorised and will affect your child’s attendance record.
Leave of absence taken during term, impacts negatively on pupils attainment and progress both academically and socially. We cannot stress the importance of children attending school regularly if they are to achieve their true potential. Please ensure you do not take any leave of absence during term time. There are sufficient opportunities for family holidays, trips abroad to be taken during the school holidays. Leave of absences taken during term time will not be authorised and will be referred to the Local Authority and action will be taken.
We understand children do genuinely have childhood illness and this is taken into consideration when authorising absences due to illness/medical appointments. If your child’s attendance is categorised as a Persistent Absentee, then we will refer our concerns to the Education Welfare Services who investigate the matter. Should it be found that there is a criminal case for prosecution, then a fine may be issued or the matter may proceed through Magistrates Court. If a conviction is secured then the parent may be fined up to £2500 and/or 3 months in prison.
Who should I contact if I have any concerns regarding attendance?
Should you have any questions regarding attendance then please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Farhat Hussain, Attendance and Office Manager, who will be happy to discuss your child’s attendance with you.
