Attendance and Punctuality

At Barn Croft Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that all our pupils receive the best possible education. Regular attendance is vital for children to make progress, enjoy school and achieve their full potential. We work closely with families to promote good attendance and punctuality and, where there are barriers to attendance, we will work with families to understand these and identify how we can help.

Attendance of 90% or below is classed as persistent absence. This means that a child is missing at least 10% of their education – around 19 days across a typical 190-day school year. We monitor attendance regularly so that we can identify concerns early and offer support before patterns of absence become more difficult to address. This may involve a phone call, meeting with parents or carers, or working with other services where appropriate.

Reporting Absence

We want children to be attending school regularly, but from time to time it isn't always possible due to illness or other circumstances. If your child is unwell or unable to attend school, please inform the school office as soon as possible on the first day of absence. You can do this by calling 020 8521 1145 or emailing school@barncroft.waltham.sch.uk. If we do not receive a reason for absence, the office will follow up with a phone call.

Unauthorised absences will be recorded and monitored, and persistent absence may be referred to the Local Authority’s Attendance Team.

Punctuality

Arriving on time is essential for children to start the day calmly and be ready for learning. Lateness can quickly add up—just 10 minutes late each day equates to over 30 hours of lost learning across the school year! Being on time helps children settle into their routine, engage fully in lessons, and develop good lifelong habits. If you need support with punctuality, please speak to the school office.

Holidays During Term Time

Barn Croft Primary School follows national attendance guidance, which states that leave of absence during term time should only be granted in exceptional circumstances. Family holidays are not normally considered exceptional circumstances, and parents and carers should plan holidays during the school holidays.

Requests for leave during term time must be made in advance and will be considered by the Headteacher on an individual basis. If a child is taken out of school without permission, the absence will normally be recorded as unauthorised.

Where a pupil has 10 sessions of unauthorised absence within a rolling 10-school-week period, the national threshold for considering a penalty notice may be met. This can include term-time holidays, unauthorised absence and certain instances of lateness. Any action taken will be in line with national guidance and the Local Authority's procedures.

The Importance of Good Attendance

Every day at school matters. Good attendance gives children the best opportunity to learn, build friendships, take part in school life and develop the knowledge and skills they need for the future.

We understand that there can be many different reasons why a child may struggle to attend school. If you are experiencing difficulties with attendance, please talk to us. Our first step is always to understand what is making attendance difficult and to work with families to find a way forward.

We appreciate your support in ensuring your child attends school every day and arrives on time. If you are facing difficulties with attendance, please contact us—we are here to help!