Every Day Matters

Nurturing Minds, Filling Hearts, Flourishing Together

Attendance, Absence & Punctuality

At Trinity St Mary’s CofE Primary School, we believe that every day in school matters. Excellent attendance and punctuality help children feel settled, build positive friendships, develop confidence and achieve their full potential.

As part of our vision of Nurturing Minds, Filling Hearts, Flourishing Together, we work closely in partnership with families to ensure that all children attend school regularly, arrive on time and are fully supported to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.

Our aim is for all pupils to achieve attendance of 96% or above, in line with national expectations. We recognise and celebrate positive attendance and work proactively with families where additional support may be needed.

Reporting Absence

If your child is unable to attend school due to illness or exceptional circumstances, parents and carers should contact the school office as soon as possible on the first day of absence, ideally before 9:30am.

As part of our safeguarding responsibilities, the school will follow up any unexplained absence to ensure all children are safe and well.

Punctuality

Arriving on time helps children begin the day calmly, confidently and ready to learn. The school gates open at 8:40am and children are expected to arrive promptly each morning so they are settled and ready for the start of learning.

Persistent lateness can affect children’s learning, wellbeing and classroom routines. If families are experiencing difficulties with punctuality or attendance, we encourage them to speak to the school so we can offer support and work together positively.

Leave During Term Time

In line with government guidance, leave of absence during term time will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. We strongly encourage family holidays and extended trips to be taken during school holiday periods wherever possible, as absence from school can have a significant impact on children’s progress, learning and sense of belonging within the school community.

Further information regarding attendance procedures, absence requests and statutory guidance can be found in our Attendance Policy below.