School Absence
The Importance of School Attendance
At Wymondham College we are committed to ensuring every student receives the best possible education and opportunities for the future. Research by the Department for Education shows a clear link between attendance and achievement. Regular school attendance is essential for your child’s academic success, personal development, and future prospects. Students should aim for 100% attendance.
Reporting an Absence
To report your child’s absence please contact us by 08:30 either by:
Telephone on 01953 609075 or email: attendance@wymcol.org for students in Years 7 to 11, and attendance6@wymcol.org for Years 12 and 13.
Please include your child’s name, tutor group and the reason s/he is not in school.
Please remember to contact us every day of absence.
If you have any attendance-based queries, please direct them to: e.cronin@wymcol.org
Please use the online form for requesting a Leave of Absence (link above).
If you think your child is unwell, please utilise the NHS advise page that details when you should keep a child at home and when they can attend school when suffering from minor illnesses. This link is below:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/is-my-child-too-ill-for-school
The UK Health Security Agency: “Should I keep my child off school?” provides additional information. Click the link below to access this:
Should I keep my child off school checklist poster
Why Attendance Matters
Students with good attendance are more likely to achieve better examination results and go on to have more successful careers.
If your child’s attendance falls below expectations, we will contact you and work together to help improve their attendance. We use the Attendance figures in school to support students with this.
ATTENDANCE FIGURES
To support good attendance we reward excellent or significantly improved attendance on a half termly basis.
1. Academic Achievement
Missing school means missing vital lessons, which can lead to gaps in learning. Studies show that students with higher attendance achieve better grades in exams and coursework. Good attendance gives your child the best chance to succeed.
2. Future Opportunities and Earnings
Education is the foundation for future career success. Research indicates that students with good attendance are more likely to secure higher-paying jobs and better career prospects. Employers value reliability, and strong attendance habits formed in school carry over into the workplace.
3. Social Development
School is not just about learning in the classroom; it’s also about developing social skills, teamwork, and friendships. Regular attendance helps children build relationships, gain confidence, and prepare for life beyond school.
What Parents Can Do
Establish a Routine: Ensure your child has a consistent morning routine to help them arrive at school on time.
Communicate with School: If your child is unwell or facing challenges, inform the school as soon as possible (see Reporting an Absence)
Encourage a Positive Attitude: Talk to your child about the importance of school and encourage them to engage with learning and friendships.
Seek Support if Needed: If you have concerns about your child’s attendance, our school team is here to help. We can work together to overcome any barriers to regular attendance.
Attendance and Punctuality Expectations
Being on time is equally important – lateness can disrupt learning and impact progress. Tutor time begins at 08:30 every morning.
Non-Attendance:
The Government remains very clear that no child should miss school apart from in exceptional circumstances and schools must continue to take steps to reduce absence to support children’s attainment.
We encourage you to book appointments outside school hours where possible. If your child has repeated absences or long-term absences, we may require you to provide medical evidence.
If there is a problem, for example your child is struggling with a certain lesson, has trouble with peers, or has any other issue that is making them reluctant to attend school, please inform the Attendance Team or their Form Tutor so we can explore ways to support them.
We are legally required to challenge persistent absence and may be required to take legal action.
Persistent absence is attendance of 90% or less.
Fixed Penalty Notice information:
It is crucial for all parents and carers to understand that holidays during term time must be applied for via a Leave of Absence Form. It is important to note that these will not be authorised.
Any examples of families taking their children out of school to go on holiday will be issued with an FPN (Fixed Penalty Notice) charge.
The Department of Education and Norfolk County Council have provided parents information around the legal attendance framework. For more information click the link below:
https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/02/29/fines-for-parents-for-taking-children-out-of-school-what-you-need-to-know/
By working together, we can ensure that every child reaches their full potential. If you have any questions or need support regarding attendance, please contact your child’s Head of House or Mrs Cronin, the Attendance Case Manager e.cronin@wymcol.org.
