Why is attendance important?
Every day of education and indeed every lesson matters. In the National Curriculum where there is built in progression, children who are persistently late or absent soon get behind with learning and then do not understand current lessons when they return.
The introduction to a lesson and to the school day is crucial to the child’s understanding of their own learning. Children who miss school frequently will undoubtedly have gaps in their learning which will impede their progress and future ability to engage in lessons. This in turn has a knock on effect for their ability to concentrate and for their behaviour.
Frequent absence has a profound and cumulative effect on achievement.
Reporting absence
If a student is absent from the Academy, it is vital that a parent contacts the Academy before 8:30am to provide the reason for absence. You can report your child's absence in the following ways:
- Leave a voicemail by calling us on 0207 737 9520 and select option 1 stating with your child's full name, class and the reason for their absence;
- Email us directly at attendance@evelyngraceacademy.org;
- Visit the academy reception.
Absence can only be authorised where there is good cause. If no adequate reason for absence is provided, attendance will be recorded as unauthorised.
Punctuality
It is the Academy’s responsibility to provide the best education possible. This can only be achieved if a student attends regularly and punctually. The Academy expects all students to arrive at the academy, registrations and sessions on time.
Poor punctuality is not acceptable. A student arriving late will disrupt not only their own continuity of learning but also that of others. Occasional lateness to the academy or lessons will result in short detentions; patterns of lateness over a period of time will result in further follow up investigation and action.
All students should arrive at the Academy by 8:20am ready to line up. Tutor time begins at 8:25am.
Students who are late, must sign in at the attendance office.
Avoiding Holidays and Appointments during Term Time
In order to maximise individual achievement, parents should avoid making routine appointments for students during the academy day or taking family holidays during the term time period. We will also require evidence of medical appointments to authorise any absences.
In line with the recommended Department for Education guidance, the Academy will not authorise any leave of absence or holiday during term time, except in the most exceptional circumstances.