Attendance and Punctuality Guidelines

At Singlewell Primary, regular attendance is vital for children’s learning and development. Below are our updated policies on absence, lateness, and term-time attendance.

1. Attendance Expectations
   The national attendance target is 96%, accommodating normal childhood illnesses. If your child is unwell, please inform us on the first day of absence via telephone (answerphone available) or email: office@singlewell.kent.sch.uk.

2. Morning Attendance
   School gates open at 8:40 am and close at 8:55 am for registration. Children arriving after this time must enter via the front gate with an adult and register at the Office. Arrivals later than 9:25 am will result in an unauthorised absence for the morning session. Persistent lateness may lead to a Penalty Notice fine issued by the local authority.

3. Absence Criteria and Unauthorised Absences
   Any absence beyond five days (or ten sessions) within 50 school days, without authorisation, will be flagged. Kent County Council (KCC) may issue fines for unauthorised absences. Each parent can receive up to two fines per child over three years:

   • First Fine: £80 if paid within 21 days, increasing to £160 if delayed.
   • Second Fine: £160 per parent; non-payment after 28 days could lead to legal action.

   More details on school attendance from Gov.uk.

4. Term-Time Holidays and Unauthorised Absences
   Holidays during term time are generally unauthorised unless exceptional circumstances are approved. If your child is absent for birthdays, trips, or other non-essential reasons, it will be marked as unauthorised, possibly resulting in fines.

5. Further Support and Legal Action
   For ongoing unauthorised absences, parents may face direct legal action. We offer support for attendance challenges, including referrals to the school nurse or a meeting with leadership or SENCO staff to discuss any specific needs.

6. Honesty with Attendance
   Please avoid placing children in situations where they may feel compelled to conceal reasons for absence. We encourage open dialogue, and children are often eager to share their experiences with classmates.

EVERY DAY IN SCHOOL COUNTS. ATTEND TODAY, ACHIEVE TOMORROW!

For more information, refer to the Gov.uk guidance on school attendance expectations and penalty notices for non-attendance. Thank you for supporting your child’s consistent and timely school attendance.