Attendance & Absence

 Why Attendance Matters

Regular attendance is essential for pupils to make the most of their education. By attending school daily, pupils can achieve their full potential, build strong relationships, and develop good habits for the future.  Our school deems 97% as the benchmark for good attendance as it accepts that some level of absence due to illness may be unavoidable but is certainly not inevitable.  A copy of our Attendance Policy can be found here: (link to Trust Attendance Policy).

Our Attendance Champion is: Mrs. Whittaker

Contact details: head@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk

Our Attendance Officer is: Mrs. Rogers (KS2) and Mrs. Wheeler-Osman (KS2)

Contact details: ks2@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk or ks1@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk

Reporting an Absence

If your child is going to be absent, please contact the school as soon as possible.  The phone is staffed from 8.00am.  You can reach our Attendance Office by:

Phone: KS2 - 01794 390380 or KS1 - 01794 390303

Email: ks2@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk or ks1@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk

Please provide your child's name, class, reason for absence, and expected return date.  You are expected to call in and report absence everyday your child is absent. We will be in contact if we have not heard from you.

Authorised vs. Unauthorised Absence

Understanding the difference between authorised and unauthorised absences is important for maintaining good attendance records.

Authorised Absences: These are absences that the school may approve. Examples include:

• Illness: If your child is too sick to attend school.
• Medical/Dental Appointments: If these cannot be scheduled outside school hours.
• Family Emergencies: Such as a bereavement or other significant events.
• Religious Observances: When observance falls on a school day.

To have an absence authorised, please provide details explaining the reason. For medical absences, a doctor’s note may be required for prolonged or frequent absences.  Remember an absence may be authorised but it still counts against your child’s attendance record.

Unauthorised Absences: These are absences that the school will not approve. Examples include:

• Unexplained Absences: Not providing a reason for the absence.
• Holidays: Taking holidays during term time.
• Shopping Trips: Going shopping during school hours.
• Lack of uniform:  Your child being absent as their uniform is in the wash
• Transport difficulties:  Your child being absent as they have missed the bus
• Non-Urgent Appointments: Such as haircuts, beauty treatments, or driving lessons.
• Family events: Day trips, weddings, or visiting relatives.

Unauthorised absences can impact a pupil’s learning and overall attendance record. If you are unsure whether an absence will be authorised, please contact the Attendance Office.

 Importance of Punctuality

Being on time is equally important. Arriving late can disrupt the class and affect your child’s learning. If your child is late, please ensure they check in at the school office upon arrival.

 Support for Attendance Issues

We understand that there can be challenges in maintaining regular attendance. Our school is committed to working with parents to address these issues. Here’s how we can help:

• Regular Communication: We will keep you informed about your child's attendance record and address any concerns promptly.
• Attendance Meetings: We can schedule meetings to discuss any issues affecting your child’s attendance and work together to find solutions.
• Resources and Referrals: We can provide resources or refer you to external support services if needed.
• Personalised Support Plans: For pupils with chronic attendance issues, we can develop a support plan tailored to their specific needs.

If you are experiencing difficulties with ensuring your child’s regular attendance, please contact us. Our team is here to help and can provide support and resources to address any challenges.

For more information please contact us:

• Attendance Officer: Mrs Rogers or Mrs Wheeler- Osman
• Phone: 01794 390380 or 01794 390303
• Email: ks2@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk or ks1@thenewforestschool.wilts.sch.uk

Let’s work together to ensure every pupil attends school regularly and on time, ready to learn and succeed!

 Supporting Your Child's Attendance

Absence request form

Leave of Absence leaflet for parents

Please see Wiltshire County Council's webpage for more information regarding absence https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/2144/Attendance-and-behaviour