School Attendance
Attendance and Safeguarding
Regular attendance is a key safeguarding responsibility and plays an essential role in keeping children safe, well and able to learn. When children are not in school, we cannot be assured of their wellbeing, safety or access to education.
We monitor attendance daily and follow up all absences promptly. Patterns of absence, including frequent, unexplained or unauthorised absence, may give rise to safeguarding concerns. Where attendance causes concern, we work closely and supportively with families to understand and address any barriers. When necessary, and in line with statutory guidance, we will involve external agencies, including the local authority, to ensure children are safe and appropriately supported.
Why attendance matters
Good attendance underpins pupils’ learning, wellbeing and safeguarding. Schools are required to monitor attendance closely and take early action where concerns arise.
We aim for all pupils to achieve attendance of at least 96%. Attendance below 90% is classed as persistent absence and requires further action in line with national guidance. Even short periods of absence can impact children’s learning and progress, particularly in the primary years.
We are currently seeing an increase in the number of children arriving late to school, and we are keen to work together with families to address this.
School Attendance and Arriving on Time - Every Minute Counts
Regular attendance and arriving on time every day are vital for children’s learning, wellbeing and sense of security. The Department for Education is clear that being in school consistently allows children to access the full curriculum, maintain friendships, and develop the routines and attitudes they need to succeed both academically and socially. Even small amounts of missed learning caused by repeated lateness can add up over time and impact children’s confidence and progress.
Arriving late can be particularly challenging for children. Missing the start of the day can increase anxiety, make it harder to settle into learning, and disrupt both the child’s class and their own sense of belonging. Good punctuality helps children start the day calmly and positively, supporting both learning and emotional wellbeing.
In line with national guidance, we are taking steps to strengthen our approach to attendance. At the beginning of each half term, families will be contacted in writing if their child’s attendance has fallen below 90%, to ensure parents and carers are aware and to offer support where needed.
This approach enables early conversations and reflects the Department for Education’s expectation that schools work proactively and in partnership with families to improve
attendance.
We understand that there can be genuine challenges that affect attendance and punctuality. If you are experiencing difficulties that are impacting your child’s arrival at school, please speak to us as soon as possible, we are always here to help and to work with you to find solutions.
Together, we can help every child arrive on time, feel settled, and make the most of every school day.
Bradford Council - Bradford Schools Absence Request Form
This form is to be used when requesting leave during term time - Bradford Schools Term-time Child/Children Absence Request Form.
Applying - please complete this form and submit it at least two weeks before the first day of leave unless there is a specific reason why the request is submitted at short notice.