It is the school's firm belief that we want to support our families to keep their children in school. If you are experiencing difficulties getting your child into school, for any reason, please contact our family liaison officer, Mrs Williams or Mrs McCormack (senior attendance champion) via the school office.
The school cannot give permission for absence for any reason which is not an exceptional circumstance. Exceptional circumstances generally mean significant life events, such as weddings of very close relatives, and , in certain circumstances, the reasonable travel time to get there. There will be a small number of occasions in the lives of everybody when these events happen, but they are the exception rather than the rule and each case will be looked at individually. Where appropriate, they will be authorised.
Absence cannot be authorised for holidays. This includes holidays wrapped around significant events. For instance, the school cannot authorise a two week holiday around a wedding abroad, only the day of the wedding and the travel time to reach it. Other events such as birthdays, family visits and celebrations, also cannot be authorised. This does not mean that parents cannot choose to attend with their children, only that the school will not authorise these choices and the result may be a fine. The school does not benefit in any way from the fines. Fines are issued by the local authority.
The pupil’s parent/carer must notify the school of the reason for the absence on the first day of an unplanned absence by 9.30am via Study Bugs app, school email: office@parkwoodprimary.org.uk or the school office (01634 234699).
