Attendance & Punctuality

At Meadow Green Primary School, we believe that excellent attendance is the foundation for success. Regular attendance helps children achieve their full potential, develop positive relationships, and feel fully included in school life.

Attendance at school is a legal requirement from the term following a child's fifth birthday.

Every Day Matters

We encourage all pupils to attend school every day unless they are genuinely unable to do so.

Regular attendance:

• Supports children's academic progress and achievement.
• Helps develop confidence, friendships and social skills.
• Promotes positive wellbeing and a sense of belonging.
• Ensures children do not miss important learning experiences.

Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to ensure that their child attends school regularly and punctually.

Types of Absence

Authorised Absence

An authorised absence is one that has been approved by the school for a valid reason, such as:

• Illness
• Medical or dental appointments
• Family emergencies
• Other exceptional circumstances agreed by the school

Unauthorised Absence

An unauthorised absence occurs when a child is absent without a valid reason or when the school has not been informed of the reason for the absence.

Meadow Green Primary School is committed to working in partnership with families to promote good attendance. Where attendance becomes a concern, our Attendance Team will work closely with parents and carers to offer support and help improve attendance.

Leave of Absence During Term Time

The Government and Local Authority strongly discourage holidays during term time, as they can have a significant impact on children's learning.

If a parent or carer wishes to request leave of absence for any reason other than a medical appointment, a Leave of Absence Request Form should be completed and submitted in advance.

Requests will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and approval is at the discretion of the Headteacher.

Every Minute Matters

Arriving at school on time is just as important as attending every day.

Being late can:

• Cause children to miss important learning and daily routines.
• Affect confidence and wellbeing.
• Disrupt teaching and learning for the whole class.

Persistent lateness is monitored by the Attendance Team and Headteacher, who will work with families to address any concerns and support improvements where needed.

Working Together

By ensuring children attend school every day and arrive on time, we can work together to give every child the very best opportunity to succeed, thrive and enjoy their education.