ABSENCES
AUTHORISED ABSENCES
Authorised absences include illness (when a child is too unwell to attend school), medical appointments, emergencies, or religious observances. Only the school can authorise an absence.
Illness Absence
If your child is ill, inform the school on the first day of absence by calling 02075259188, emailing or click above to report absence, and every subsequent day of absence. Simply stating your child is ‘not feeling well or unwell’ is insufficient; more details are required. For ongoing absences, we may request medical evidence to authorise further absences.
If your child is ill, inform the school on the first day of absence by calling 02075259188, emailing or click above to report absence, and every subsequent day of absence. Simply stating your child is ‘not feeling well or unwell’ is insufficient; more details are required. For ongoing absences, we may request medical evidence to authorise further absences.
Medical Appointments
We encourage scheduling medical appointments outside school hours. If this is not possible, evidence of the appointment must be provided (e.g., appointment card, prescription, or text reminder). If your child is classified as persistently absent, routine medical or dental appointments scheduled during the school day will be unauthorised.
We encourage scheduling medical appointments outside school hours. If this is not possible, evidence of the appointment must be provided (e.g., appointment card, prescription, or text reminder). If your child is classified as persistently absent, routine medical or dental appointments scheduled during the school day will be unauthorised.
Secondary School Appointments
For secondary induction days, taster days, or interviews, evidence (e.g., registration for exams or invitation letters) must be provided to authorise the absence.
For secondary induction days, taster days, or interviews, evidence (e.g., registration for exams or invitation letters) must be provided to authorise the absence.
Religious Observance
Absences for religious festivals outside school holidays may be authorised. Parents should request leave in advance for such occasions via an Exceptional Term Time Leave Request Form.
Absences for religious festivals outside school holidays may be authorised. Parents should request leave in advance for such occasions via an Exceptional Term Time Leave Request Form.
External Educational Opportunities
For external classes or performances, evidence (e.g., exam dates, performance licences) is required for authorisation.
For external classes or performances, evidence (e.g., exam dates, performance licences) is required for authorisation.
Family Events
Absences for weddings or funerals of immediate family members may be authorised with evidence (e.g., invitation or order of service).
Absences for weddings or funerals of immediate family members may be authorised with evidence (e.g., invitation or order of service).
UNAUTHORISED ABSENCES
Unauthorised absences are those deemed unreasonable, and can lead to fines or legal action from the local authority.
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Examples of unauthorised absences:
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Under the new national rules introduced by the Department of Education, a penalty notice will be served when a child has missed 10 or more sessions (5 days) for unauthorised reasons in any rolling 10-week period. This is in line with national guidance and Southwark’s Code of Conduct.
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