As you are aware, in line with DfE guidance, Governors have updated the Attendance Policy. (A copy is available on the school website). We know that sometimes our pupils cannot come to school because they are really unwell - and that's the right thing to do for them and other students.

However, medical advice is clear that children with mild illness will often be well enough to attend school- for example if they have a cough, or cold, without a temperature. The NHS guidance Is my child too ill for school? - NHS (www.nhs.uk) is designed to support parents in their decision making about mild illness. Children fall behind their friends and classmates when they miss school- we want the amount of missed education to be reduced as much as possible.

We are keen to support families to ensure children are in school ready for their learning. As a reminder we have listed below the key attendance pro?cedures:

What YOU must do:

• Telephone the school before 8.30am each day of your child’s absence.

• Tell the school in advance, of any medical appointments and bring in appointment cards/letters. (Where possible book these after school.)

• If you are not sure whether your child is well enough to attend school, send them in anyway as they often perk up on arrival.

• Have a back up plan if you are unable to bring your child to school e.g. call on a family member, neighbour or friend.

• If you and your child are experiencing difficulties with school attendance then talk to us so we can help.

What WE will do:

• Check your child’s attendance every day.

• Phone home to discuss your child’s attendance with you.

• Write to you and/ or invite you into school for an attendance meeting if we are concerned.

• If we cannot establish a reason for absence, then we will make a welfare home visit.