School duty to code absence as authorised or unauthorised
Schools are required by law to keep attendance registers which must be marked at the beginning of the morning session and during the course of the afternoon session at a time determined by the school. If a pupil of compulsory school age is absent, the register must show whether the absence was authorised (acceptable) or unauthorised (where no acceptable reason is given for absence). Only the school can approve the reason for absence.
Holiday in term time
South Gloucestershire’s Department for Children and Young People strongly advise parents not to take holidays during term time. This is in line with government guidance and schools may code such absences taken in term time as unauthorised. In certain circumstances a Penalty Notice (fine up to £100 per parent per pupil) or other formal procedures may follow.
Illness
Occasionally children and young people are too unwell to attend school. Schools are encouraged to engage with parents as soon as a pattern of absence becomes apparent; health professionals may be part of a support plan. It is often helpful for parents to have some supporting information such as prescriptions or appointment cards to share with the school.
Punctuality
It is a parents responsibility to ensure their children arrive at school on time. Late arrival at school may result in a young person feeling greater stress, learning less and achieving poorer outcomes. Lateness can also disrupt the learning of others. If a pupil arrives after the end of registration the absence may be recorded as unauthorised for that session. If lateness persists, formal action in the form of a Penalty Notice or legal action may follow.