When parents decide to have their child registered at school, they have a legal duty to ensure their child attends that school regularly. This means their child must attend every day that the school is open. There will be some exceptions under agreed circumstances, however, this is discussed and approved in advance with staff members. The attendance registers at Sandwich Infant School are completed in both morning and afternoon sessions. Register is taken in the morning at 8:40am and after school lunch at 13:00pm.
It is the parents/carers' responsibility to contact the school on the first day their child is absent. This is a safeguarding requirement so that all parties know that your child is safe and whereabouts are known. Parents/carers should update the school daily to inform the school to update.
If a pupil is absent from school, parents are expected to contact the school via telephone (01304 612228) or email (office@sandwich-infant.kent.sch.uk) by 9:00am. Parents must give a reason for the absence and this will be recorded on the computer system. The school will contact the parent/carer by 9:15am if we have not heard why the child has not arrived at school.
If we have concerns for a child, a welfare check may be made.
All pupils that arrive late must report, with a responsible adult (16+) to the school office, where the reason for lateness is recorded. Pupils repeatedly arriving after the register has closed will be marked as late after registration (U) and this will count as an unauthorised absence. Frequent lateness will be discussed with parents/carers and could provide grounds for prosecution or penalty notice.
Requests for holidays
In order for the children to achieve the best at school it is vital that they attend school regularly and on time.
Absence from school can only be granted in exceptional circumstances and requests should be made in writing accompanied by a leave of absence form which is available below to download or please ask at the School Office. The request must be made at least 10 days before the absence is required.
If a child is taken out of school without permission the absence will be recorded as unauthorised and a Penalty Notice may be requested from the local authority. If the school have reason to believe that a child has been taken on holiday without making a request to the Headteacher, then this will also be recorded as unauthorised and a Penalty Notice may be requested from the local authority.