What is persistent absence and why does it matter?

We want every child to enjoy school, feel part of our community, and make the best possible progress. When attendance drops below 90%, it is classed as persistent absence.

This means a child has missed 19 days or more across the school year which is roughly one day every two weeks, or around six days each term.

Thinking about attendance in days rather than percentages can be really helpful. Nationally, most children miss no more than 10 days of school each year.

Once a child reaches 38 sessions [19 days] of absence, they are officially recorded as Persistently Absent. At this point, our Head of School, Mrs. Pomeroy will get in touch to invite you to a meeting. This is simply to understand what is happening and to explore how we can support you and your child to improve school attendance.

The Education Act 1996 places a duty on parents to ensure their child receives full‑time education. The Local Authority also has a responsibility to monitor attendance and, where necessary, take further action.

Our aim is always to work with families, offering support early so that every child can flourish and achieve their God-given potential.