Hollyfield Primary School - Attendance
Attendance at Hollyfield Primary School
At Hollyfield Primary School, we believe that regular attendance is the foundation of every child’s learning, wellbeing and future success. Every day in school matters, and we work closely with families to ensure children attend regularly, arrive on time and feel ready to learn. Our aim is for all pupils to achieve attendance of at least 96% or above.
School Day
- School starts: 8:45am for all pupils
- Registers close: 9:00am
- Reception and Key Stage 1 finish: 3:15pm
- Key Stage 2 finish: 3:20pm
Punctuality Matters
Arriving on time helps children settle into the day, reconnect with friends and take part in our soft start activities.
- Children arriving after 9:00am but before 9:15am will receive an L code (Late). This is recorded as present but highlights that a child has arrived after the register has closed.
- Children arriving after 9:15am will receive a U code (Late after register closed). This is recorded as an unauthorised absence for the morning session and will affect overall attendance.
Regular lateness can quickly add up to lost learning time and will be monitored by the school.
Reporting an Absence
If your child is unable to attend school, please contact the school office before 8:30am on the first day of absence and keep us updated each day they remain absent.
Where attendance concerns arise, we will always seek to work in partnership with families to understand any barriers and provide appropriate support
Leave During Term Time
The law allows headteachers to grant leave of absence during term time only in exceptional circumstances. Family holidays, leisure trips and cheaper travel arrangements are not considered exceptional circumstances.
Parents wishing to request leave during term time must complete an Exceptional Leave in Term Time Request Form (available from the school office) and submit it to the school in advance. Any leave taken without authorisation may be recorded as an unauthorised absence and could lead to further action in line with national attendance regulations.
Celebrating Attendance
We believe good attendance should be recognised and celebrated. Classes enjoy taking part in our Classopoly Attendance Challenge, where attendance of 95% or above earns opportunities to collect rewards and golden tokens. Classes that collect five golden tokens can enjoy a special reward afternoon. We also regularly celebrate attendance successes through assemblies and school communications.
Why 96% Matters
An attendance level of 96% or above gives children the best chance of success. Even a small drop in attendance can result in significant missed learning and make it harder for children to keep up with their peers. Working together, we can ensure every child benefits from the full range of opportunities school has to offer.