School Attendance Matters

At Bitterne Manor, we want every child to feel happy, confident and successful. Regular attendance is essential to this. Children who attend school consistently build strong friendships, feel secure in routines and make the best possible academic progress.

Our whole-school attendance target is 96%.

Attendance remains a national priority and we share high expectations for every child. We also recognise that sometimes families need support — if anxiety, health needs or family circumstances are affecting attendance, please contact us. We are here to help.

Reporting an Absence

If your child is unwell:

• Contact school before 8:30am via the Arbor App or by phone.

• Provide the reason and expected length of absence.

If no reason is received, we will contact you the same morning.

Where attendance falls below 90%, medical evidence may be requested.

Leave of Absence & Holidays

There is no automatic right to take children out of school during term time.

• Leave is only granted in exceptional circumstances.

• Requests must be made in advance using a leave form (available from the office).

• Holidays during term time will not be authorised.

• Leave cannot be approved retrospectively.

Penalty Notices

If a child has 10 sessions (5 days) of unauthorised absence within 10 school weeks, the school must refer the case to the Local Authority.

This may result in:

• £160 per parent, per child

• Reduced to £80 if paid within 21 days

Further unauthorised absence may lead to legal action.

Punctuality Also Matters

• Gates open: 8:30am

• School starts: 8:45am

• Register closes: 9:15am

Arriving after 9:15am counts as an unauthorised absence for the morning session.

Please aim to arrive at 8:30am so children can start calmly and ready to learn.

Monitoring Attendance

Attendance is monitored by our Attendance Officer, Kim Abbott (Assistant Headteacher).

• Below 96% – attendance may be monitored.

• Below 90% – classed as persistent absence and a meeting will be arranged.

• Ongoing concerns may involve the Education Support Officer and further action.

Celebrating Good Attendance

We reward strong attendance and punctuality through:

• Weekly announcement in assembly and additional playtime for class with the best attendance

• Weekly 100% prize draw

• Half-termly recognition for 100% attendance

• In it to Win It Celebration 

• Termly 96%-100% recognition