Holidays and Attendance

It is very difficult for children to learn if they are not in school! Regular and punctual attendance ensures that your child is able to make the most of his/her school life, whilst infrequent or late attendance leads to children feeling constantly behind with their schoolwork. At Longvernal School, children are rewarded for full attendance.

In accordance with the Education Act 1996, is the duty of parents/carers to ensure the regular attendance of their child in school. This means that she/he must be in attendance and on time every day unless she/he is ill or there is any other unavoidable cause.

There will be times when your child is unable to attend school because of unavoidable causes. We ask you to inform us on the first day if your child is unable to attend school. We will also ask you the reason and expected duration of the absence. Our Attendance Policy is available from the office if you would like more detailed information.

The school will decide whether an absence may be authorised.

Holidays

We request that you avoid taking holidays during term time. Holidays will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances in this instance you are asked to write to the school governing body, at least one term in advance requesting permission to do so.

The attendance/absence rates for the academic year 2011/2012 were as follows:

Attendance rate 2011/12   94.58%
Authorised absence      5.08%
Unauthorised absence   0.4%

Local Authorities are charged in law with enforcing school attendance. If you wish to obtain more information or advice please contact the Education Welfare Service at Bath and North East Somerset Council, P.O. Box 25, Riverside, Temple Street, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1DN