Attendance and Absence
Good attendance helps children to learn, grow and enjoy school!
At St. Alban & St. Stephen Catholic Primary School and Nursery, we believe that coming to school every day supports steady progress and a love of learning. We work closely with families to promote good attendance and to support children if difficulties arise. By working together and addressing concerns early, we aim to ensure every child receives the full education they deserve.
Our Attendance Policy follows the statutory Government guidance on attendance which was published in August
Impact of Absence on Your Child's Education
Absences
If your child is absent from school, you must inform the school office with a reason for your child’s absence before 9.30 am every day that your child is absent.
If your child is absent for five days or more, you must provide medical evidence (this must include your child’s name) or this will be unauthorised. Evidence accepted can be: medical appointment card, prescription, medicine (prescribed by the doctor), medical letter from the doctor or text messages sent to you by your doctor can also be shown to the school office. If your child is absent immediately before or after a school holiday period, we must see evidence for this absence.
Medical and dental appointments must be arranged outside school time whenever possible. If this is not possible, you must provide evidence of the appointment or this will be unauthorised.
NHS Guidance - When should I keep my child off school?
Leave of Absence
In accordance with the Department of Education's guidance, leave of absence during term time will not be accepted except in the most exceptional circumstances. All requests for leave must be made in writing (minimum of two weeks in advance) to the Head of School prior to any absences being taken and booking/arrangements being made. We cannot grant permission after the leave has been taken.
Hertfordshire Guidance- Penalty Notices for Unauthorised Absence
Punctuality
Arriving at school on time helps children settle quickly, feel confident, and make the most of every learning opportunity. Good punctuality also supports positive routines and respect for others. We appreciate parents’ support in ensuring children arrive promptly each day ready to learn. Classroom doors open at 8.45, allowing a ten-minute 'soft start' before the register closes at 8.55.
Contact Us
The Senior Leader responsible for the strategic approach to attendance in our school is Ms Hackett, Head of School.
The staff member responsible for attendance matters on a day-to-day basis Mrs Costas, Office Manager.
The staff member who can provide individual support with attendance if your child has additional or medical needs is Mrs Smith, Assistant Head and SENDCo.
Contact us via admin@ssas.herts.sch.uk or on 01727 866668.