Regular and punctual attendance at school is both a legal requirement and essential for students to maximise their educational opportunities.  Good school attendance is a key factor in raising attainment and reducing social exclusion.  Students should be at school on time every day that the school is open, unless the absence is unavoidable and an acceptable reason is given to a member of staff.

At Kingsmead School we work in partnership with parents to encourage excellent attendance and to offer support in removing barriers that may prevent students from coming to school. However, parents are legally responsible for ensuring that their children come to school regularly and punctually. Cases of persistent absence will be referred to the Education Welfare Service, which discharges the Local Authority’s statutory responsibility in relation to school attendance, in accordance with The Education Act 1996.

Students who have full attendance are more successful and confident in their studies.  Those who are frequently absent not only have significant gaps in their own learning but also may hinder the learning of others because they need a disproportionate amount of support to help them catch up.