Attendance

At St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, we recognise that attending school regularly has a positive impact on learning, progress and, therefore, the best life chances for children. We will encourage good attendance for all pupils, by offering an environment in which pupils feel valued and part of the school community.

Department for Education (DfE) guidance states that all schools should have effective systems and procedures for encouraging regular school attendance and investigating the underlying causes of poor attendance, which should be set out in an attendance policy.  These systems should be reviewed regularly and modified where necessary to reflect the circumstances of the school.  Please find attached our current school Attendance Policy and Procedures for more details, alongside the holiday request form, which MUST be completed and returned to the school office, for all term time leave requests.

Julie, our family support worker, leads on attendance and, therefore, will be the main point of contact for anyone needing support with attendance. She will also contact you if your child’s attendance is below the expected level.

As of 1st September 2013, head teachers can no longer authorise any leave of absence during term time unless they are satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances to warrant the granting of leave. We are no longer able to accept reasons such as; holidays are only affordable during term time, or it was a surprise holiday booked by someone else.  What constitutes ‘exceptional circumstances’ are considered on an individual basis by Julie and Mrs O’Mahony.  On occasion, requests may also be referred to our Governing Board.

School opening hours

School gates open at 8:30am with classroom doors opening at 8:40am.

Registers will be taken at 8:50am.

School day finishes at 3:10pm.

Nursery opening hours – 9am to 3pm.