Attendance

Attendance and Absence

Regular attendance is one of the most important factors in helping children achieve their full potential. We work closely with families to promote good attendance and ensure every child has the best possible opportunity to learn, develop and thrive.

Reporting an Absence

If your child is unable to attend school due to illness, please contact the school office as soon as possible:

📞 01604 713822

If your child is absent for more than one day, we ask that you keep the school informed and update us each day regarding their absence.

Attendance Expectations

At Kingsley Primary School, good attendance is expected, and our attendance target is:

96% attendance or above

Research shows that regular attendance has a significant impact on children's progress, achievement and wellbeing. Every day in school provides valuable learning experiences that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere.

Term-Time Leave

The school does not authorise holidays during term time.

Since 1 September 2013, there has been no automatic entitlement for parents and carers to take children on holiday during term time.

Requests for leave of absence will only be considered in exceptional circumstances, and family holidays would not normally be regarded as exceptional.

Penalty Notices

If a child accumulates 5 days (10 sessions) of unauthorised absence within a 10-week period, this may be regarded as irregular attendance and could result in a referral to the Local Authority for consideration of legal action.

This could include:

A Penalty Notice of up to £160 per parent, per child.
Prosecution under Section 444(1) of the Education Act 1996, where a conviction may result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Prosecution under Section 444(1A) of the Education Act 1996, where a conviction may result in a fine of up to £2,500, up to 3 months' imprisonment, or both.

First Offence

The first time a Penalty Notice is issued for term-time leave or irregular attendance, the fine will be:

£160 per parent, per child

Reduced to £80 if paid within 21 days.

Second Offence (Within 3 Years)

The second time a Penalty Notice is issued within a three-year period, the fine will be:

£160 per parent, per child

Payable within 28 days with no reduction available.

Third Offence (Within 3 Years)

If a third offence occurs within a three-year period, a Penalty Notice will not be issued.

Instead, the case may be referred directly to the Magistrates' Court.

Please refer to the school's Attendance Policy for full details.