Lateness
Children must attend on time to be given a present mark for the session. Children are expected to be in class from 8:45am - 8:50am: all pupils are expected to be in class and settled at 8:50. Registration takes place at 8:50am. If arrives in class after the register, they will be marked as late and will receive an L code (Late). The reason for this will be recorded, alongside the child’s name for monitoring purposes.

If a child arrives after 9:30am, this will be classed as an unauthorised absence (code U as per DFE compulsory attendance codes). The procedures for first day absence then commences. 

Where regular or a pattern of lateness, schools will discuss this with parents and notify them through texts or letters. Parents/carers will be invited into school to discuss the concerns if the pattern or trend continues. This meeting will be to plan a way forward, which may involve our Pastoral team and maybe escalated to outside agencies such as the Education Welfare Officer.

Absence

If a child is absent from, school parents should contact the school office on the

first day of absence and maintain contact with the school throughout the absence. All communication about absences should be made through our school office. Our Pastoral Team will be in touch where  circumstances are relevant or require any follow up conversations.

It is the decision of the Headteacher whether to accept and authorise an absence in line with up to date policies and legislation. 

Whilst generally reasons for absences are accepted. Schools are expected to and can challenge parents’ explanations or seek additional evidence if they have any concerns regarding a child’s attendance: this is particularly relevant if a child's attendance is below 95%.

Daily attendance is a legal requirement. YENTON PRIMARY SCHOOL is working in partnership with parents and the Local Authority to improve school attendance.   

Your efforts, working in partnership with the school, will ensure that your child will have the best chance to achieve their academic potential through the wide opportunities that we offer. 

Consistent daily attendance will allow your child to

• access the lessons needed to achieve their expected grades and beyond
• maintain friendships and develop new ones
• have access to social and sporting events offered by the school
• explore new interests and develop new skills
• develop positive life habits such as good punctuality, which is essential to thrive in the world 

How does your child compare?

If you are worried about your child/children’s attendance the first port of call is

to discuss your concerns with the school directly. The school has an experienced Pastoral staff, who will be able to help, and all schools work closely with health and council teams, who may also be able to help if needed. 

If you have concerns about mental health; domestic abuse; parenting; bereavement; finance; problems with drugs and alcohol; you can find help and support from

the ‘From Birmingham with Love’ webpage:

From Birmingham with Love

Additionally, Birmingham City Council provides online information and guidance to parents on school attendance which you can access here:

School Attendance Information for Parents

Family holidays in term time are not allowed in law and are unlikely to be authorised. Family emergencies also need careful consideration. It is not always appropriate

or in the best interests of the child to miss school for emergencies which are being dealt with by adult family members. Notifying the school of leave due to a family emergency does not mean it will be authorised. 

Please note that where parents fail to ensure their child attends school regularly, legal action, including penalty notices, may be considered. Refer to the RHMAT attendance policy, which is implemented at Yenton Primary.