The government's target for pupil attendance is at least 95%, Cumbria's target is 96%.  Parents should follow the link to read more about the basis for this information.  The effect that absence has on children's educational development is documented here.

Requesting term-time absence

 To make a request for absence, please download and complete a form from the link below or ask the school office to provide a paper copy.  The school should receive adequate notice of at least a week for such requests.  Authorization for absence is rare and will only be given in extenuating circumstances at the discretion of the head teacher taking into account the following criteria:

• The special circumstances of the situation
• That attendance for the child is 95% or better over the preceding 12 weeks before the leave is taken.
• The leave is not taken during tests or examinations or in the immediate run up to the KS2 SATS.
•  Whether previous absence has been authorised during the academic year.
• The absence interferes with transition activities arranged for Year 6
• The child’s age, stage of education, progress and general attendance.

  The decision will be communicated to parents and a record kept in school.

Other authorised circumstances 

• Participation in sporting activities, educational visits or educational trips as defined by the headteacher.
• Sickness, unavoidable health appointments, exceptional family circumstances or religious observance including funerals.
•  During enforced closure of the school due to bad weather or other emergency situations  

Fixed penalty notice

The headteacher has the right to issue fixed penalty notices to parents/carers who compromise the education of their child/children through the persistent taking of unauthorised absences.  A letter to the parent confirming that a leave of absence has not been authorised must be sent and include a warning as appropriate that a penalty notice may be issued in future.