Attendance & Absence

The following Policy is approved for all BKCAT Trust schools.

Trust Attendance Policy – St Mary’s

Attendance
At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, VA, we believe that excellent attendance and punctuality are essential for every child. Children should come to school every day and on time that school is open unless absolutely unavoidable. Promoting excellent attendance is the duty of everyone; parents/ carers, staff and pupils. Occasionally children can be reluctant to come to school, we would encourage parents to discuss this with their class teacher or the school’s SENCO, Mrs Geldard. At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, VA, we aim for an attendance of 98%. Anything below 95% is deemed unacceptable.

Why is regular school attendance so important for my child?
Regular attendance at school means that your child can make the most of their education and improve their chances in adult life. School can also help your child’s social skills such as making and developing friendships. A regular and punctual attendance pattern will help your child when they enter the world of work.

The link between attendance and attainment in school is clear. The more a pupil is in school the more they increase their opportunity to fulfil their potential.

Request for leave of absence during term time/ Fines for holidays taken in term time. 
The law states that parents do not have a right to take their child out of school for a holiday during term time. At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, VA, we will administer fines for all holidays taken in term time. This is in line with 2024 guidance for schools.

School attendance and absence: Overview – GOV.UK

School attendance and absence: Legal action to enforce school attendance – GOV.UK

The following website provides useful information for parents:

Fines for parents for taking children out of school: What you need to know – The Education Hub