Attendance and Punctuality

From 19th August 2024 the Government have introduced a new National Framework for Penalty Notices. Under the National Framework all schools will be required to consider a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) when a child has missed 10 or more sessions for unauthorised reasons in 10 school weeks. Each school day has 2 sessions, AM and PM, meaning 10 sessions could be 5 full school days or 10 half days.

In the majority of cases, schools and the Council will try and provide support to help you improve your child’s attendance first, but if this isn’t effective, or if the absence is for an unauthorised term time holiday, parents may receive an FPN. FPN’s are used as an alternative to prosecution.

The National Framework for Penalty Notices sets out that a maximum of 2 FPN’s per child, per parent can be issued within a rolling 3-year period. If the national threshold is met for a third time (or subsequent times) within 3 years, another tool will be used.

• First FPN in a 3-year period: £160 per parent, per child to be paid within 28 days. Reduced to £80 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days
• Second FPN in a 3-year period: £160 per parent, per child to be paid within 28 days
• Third occasion in a 3-year period: A FPN will not be issued, and the Council will consider alternative enforcement

Please see the link below for further information on RMBC’s website:

https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/education-2/school-attendance/1

• On each day of absence parents/carers must inform the School by 8.30am on 0114 2570153. Please do not email to report absences.
• Failure to do so will result in contact being made by the Attendance team (first day of absence).
• Where attendance falls below target levels (96%) over a prolonged period of time an attendance letter will be sent home, outlining the importance of regular attendance and offering support if needed.
• Where attendance concerns continue, an attendance meeting will be set up to explore ways in which we can support you with your child’s attendance and to set clear attendance targets going forwards.

• Ensure your child attends school before and after the appointment wherever possible.
• We will not authorise a full day of absence for medical appointments if this is not required.
• Try to ensure that appointments are arranged during the school holidays where possible. We do understand that some appointments cannot be changed.
• Please obtain proof of medical appointments. For example, this could be an appointment card from the Doctor’s receptionist, a copy of the prescription, or sight of the medication issued, as medical appointments will not be authorised without evidence being provided.
• Medication can be administered and stored securely in school for your convenience so children are still able to attend when taking medication. Please speak to Lisa Shaw, our Medical Needs lead for advice if needed.

Arriving at the school prepared for learning in correct uniform, with full equipment and a well-focused attitude for learning is of crucial importance. This is key to a positive start to the day’s learning. Pupils are expected to arrive on time. Failure to do this will result in disruption to their own learning as well as the learning of others.

Parents are required to complete and sign a ‘late arrival’ form for any child arriving late. If the problem continues the school will make contact with parents/carers and seek clarification and plan ways forward.