At Tillingbourne Junior School, excellent attendance underpins everything we want for our children — to love learning, find their strengths and talents, and achieve more than they thought possible. Every day in school matters. Good attendance supports strong academic progress, positive friendships, confidence and wellbeing.

We expect all pupils to attend school every day, on time, unless there is a genuine and unavoidable reason for absence. The school day begins at 8:45am, with registers closing at 8:50am. Arriving late can disrupt learning and, if pupils arrive after the close of registration (9:30am), this may be recorded as an unauthorised absence in line with national regulations.

Reporting Absence

If your child is unwell or unable to attend school, you must contact the school before 8:50am on each and every day of absence. It is not sufficient to notify us only on the first day — we require contact every day your child is absent unless otherwise agreed.

If we do not receive a reason for absence, we will contact you on the first day to ensure your child is safe.

Clear communication between home and school helps us safeguard children and maintain accurate attendance records.

Authorised and Unauthorised Absence

In line with Department for Education guidance (updated 2024), the Headteacher decides whether an absence is authorised.

• Authorised absence may include genuine illness, unavoidable medical appointments or exceptional circumstances.

• Unauthorised absence includes term-time holidays, avoidable appointments, arriving after registers close without good reason, or absence without explanation.

The law is clear that headteachers may not authorise leave during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances. If leave is taken without authorisation, this may result in a Penalty Notice being issued by the Local Authority.

Supporting Good Attendance

We carefully monitor attendance and work closely with families where attendance falls below expected levels. Attendance below 95% becomes a concern, and 90% or below is classed nationally as persistent absence.

Our approach is supportive and proactive. We will:

• Communicate early if attendance begins to decline

• Offer meetings and tailored support plans

• Work with families and, where necessary, the Local Authority Inclusion Officer

Attendance is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can ensure every child benefits fully from their education and feels safe, valued and successful in school.

If you have concerns about your child’s attendance or need support, please contact the school office or speak to a member of our leadership team. We are here to help.