An Overview

Whilst we do understand the importance of family time and try to be as understanding as possible, we have to follow Local Authority procedures and protocols and adhere to Government expectations and guidance in terms of our view and actions in respect to children having holidays during term time.

Head teachers are expected to restrict leave of absence in term-time. There is discretion to consider exceptional circumstances based on the individual facts, circumstances and background behind the request. The DfE have stated that generally they do not consider the need or desire for a holiday or other absence for leisure or recreation to be an exceptional circumstance.

• A leave of absence form must be obtained from the school office and returned in advance of any holiday being taken in term time.
• Any holidays taken in term time, which are not deemed as exceptional circumstances will be recorded as unauthorised.
• Any unauthorised holiday of 5 days or more within a 10-week period will be referred to the Local Authority for a fixed penalty notice, applied to any parent with parental responsibility.
• Permission can never be given in retrospect (after the holiday).

Forms (available from the school office) must always be completed, preferably before a holiday is even booked.

It is extremely important that we know where your child is during term time when they are required to be in school and as such if you do not complete the required paperwork, before going on holiday and we do not know where your child is, then it will be dealt with as a safeguarding matter. We ask that you are honest with us.

Gemma Harcourt is our Safeguarding and Attendance Officer.

She does not have a class teaching responsibility and always welcomes any opportunity to work with families to ensure excellent attendance.

If you have any questions or queries about attendance, how we can support you and regulations regarding holidays during term time, please do not hesitate to contact her or call into school.