Attendance and Punctuality

We are all in this together to raise attendance and to raise attainment

 

Harlesden Primary School will be focusing on attendance and punctuality this academic year. We are below national average. The schools target is 96% and I know together we can accomplish this.  In order for children to achieve their full potential, it is essential that they attend school regularly.  The expectation is that children will attend for at least 96.1% of the time, taking into account illness.  If a child’s attendance becomes a concern we will inform parents/guardians and meet with them to resolve the situation.  However, if progress is not made, the schools Educational Welfare Officer (EWO) will be informed and the process would become official.

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Holidays and Leave of Absence

 

This academic year we will be working closely with the local authority to reduce absences in our school.  Leave of absence or holidays in term time WILL NOT be authorised unless there are exceptional circumstances in line with the regulations issued by the Department for Education.  If parents/guardians decide to take their child out of school during term time they are at serious risk of a fixed penalty notice being issued, prosecution(criminal record) or loss of your child’s school place.  Unfortunately this has happened recently to some of our families

 

Reporting your child absent from school

 

Although we strive for good attendance for all children, we understand that children can be unwell.  When there is an unexpected or unplanned absence, it is you’re responsibly to report your child’s absence. Please telephone the school on the day and every day of your child’s absence. This helps carry out our safeguarding obligations as the school must know the whereabouts of every child.

The schools office opens at 8.00 am. Please telephone 020 8965 7445 all absence should be made before 8.30am.  Alternatively you can e-mail the school attendance@harlesden.brent.sch.uk giving the reason for your child’s absence.

 

Punctuality

 

When pupils arrive late to school, there are many consequences:

They miss out on essential instructions given at the beginning of the lesson.  This can significantly reduce achievement, regardless of academic ability. Arriving 5 minutes late each day adds up to missing 3 entire days of school by the end of the year.

 Please support your child to develop lifelong habits of good attendance and punctuality to allow them to achieve their full potential.

 

Medical Appointments

 

Please avoid making dental/medical appointments during the school day.  If an appointment is absolutely necessary please produce your appointment card to the school office as evidence for this absence.

 

Rewards for Good Attendance

 

Whole school attendance figures are provided at Friday’s celebration assemblies to pupils and staff.  The class figures are also shared and the class or classes with 100% are rewarded with a prizes and a trophy to keep in their class for the week.

At Friday’s celebration assembly the children are entered into a game called ‘In to Win.’  If a child has 100% attendance that week they win a prize.

Every half term pupils are rewarded with certificate for good attendance.

At the end of the summer term children with 100% and good attendance are awarded with certificates and medals.  Children with excellent attendance are put into a prize draw.