ATTENDANCE INFORMATION

How do I report my child's absence from school?

It is a parent/carer’s responsibility to notify school if their child is absent. It is required that contact is made with school every day that a child is absent unless otherwise arranged with the Attendance Officer. We ask please that contact is made with the school before 9:00am, and a clear and sufficient reason must be provided.

• Option 1 (preferred): E-mail explaining student absence to attendance@sjcs.org.uk
• Option 2: Phone call to school reception on 01722 335380

Please do not reply to text messages sent via the SchoolComms system, as these responses are not monitored.

Is my child is too ill to come to school?

Use the NHS “Is my child too ill for school?” page to help with decisions over whether your child should be in school or not. Most common ailments are not a reason to be off school, just like they would not be a reason to be off work.

Non-attendance will not be authorised for the following reasons listed below, unless they are being investigated by your doctor:

Taking medicine: Over the counter medicines can be given before school. After a form has been signed by a parent, we can keep Paracetamol on school premises for your child for all non-urgent illnesses. Please see Medical Support or contact reception for more information.

Still not sure? Remember, if your child comes to school and their condition worsens, they can seek the help of first aid at reception and if needed we will contact you so you can come and collect them. Developing this “give it a go” method will help build your child’s resilience.

What do I do if my child has a medical appointment or other planned absence?

Any absences which are known about in advance, such as doctor’s appointments, are to be sent to attendance@sjcs.org.uk. Please attach a copy of the paperwork for the appointment as soon as possible (such as hospital letter or appointment card). Please also clearly state what time your child will need to be signed out of school. All students must sign out of school at reception before leaving.

Unfortunately, even if absent for a medical appointment, a student is still classed as absent from school. This is beyond the school’s control. Please make appointments outside school hours where possible. If this is not possible, we recommend students attend school before and/or after the appointment, even if only briefly, before being signed out. This ensures that the impact on a child’s learning is minimal and their attendance will not be negatively impacted.

Can I take my child on holiday during school term time?

The expectation that students will not take holidays in term time (and therefore not miss school) is a national expectation, rather than just of the school. Permission for leave may only be granted under exceptional circumstances.

Requests must be submitted to Mr Higgins, Headteacher, prior to any firm booking or arrangements being made, and at least two weeks prior to the first day of planned absence.

Click here for Wiltshire guidance about Penalty Notices for Holidays Taken in Term Time.

What do I do if my child has school-related anxiety?

If your child is suffering with school-related anxiety that is impacting their ability or willingness to attend, then please speak to the school. There is support we can offer to help with this.

However, the most effective support to help understand and overcome school anxiety starts at home. There are many resources available online to support you with this. Please have a look at our Mental Health and Wellbeing page, where there is a comprehensive list of resources for both parents/carers and pupils.

We also recommend the YoungMinds parent guide as a starting point for information and guidance for supporting your child.