Attendance

Attendance

At Biddenham International School & Specialist Sports College we believe that for our students to gain the greatest benefits from their education, it is vital that they attend regularly. Our students should be on time every day Biddenham opens, unless the reason for absence is absolutely unavoidable. It is very important that families recognise their responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time. 98% attendance is a realistic and achievable target for all students that allows for the occasional emergency or sick absence.

You may think that 90% in an exam is great, but for attendance it is not very good at all:

90% attendance = ½ a day a week missed
90% attendance = 4 weeks missed every year
90% attendance = ½ a school year missed every 5 years

For every 17 missed days a year = one GCSE-grade drop in achievement; this could be the difference between a C and a D grade in Maths or English!

Parent/Carer Responsibility:

• Only let your child stay at home if they are genuinely ill.

• If your child is going to be absent you must inform the School before 8:00 am on 01234 334528 or at attendance@biddenham.beds.sch.uk to advise us of why they are absent and when you expect them to return. If they are off school for three or more days a doctor’s note is required.

• Make medical appointments outside of school hours.

• Ensure that holidays are taken in school holidays only, never in term time; a Fixed Penalty Notice may be issued to parents/carers if students take holiday during term.

What to do if there is a problem with your child’s attendance:

• Your child’s welfare is important to us. We can help you resolve issues and can offer lots of support for you and your child. You are not alone. Contact their tutor to address the reason for their non-attendance.

• Be supportive of your child in the run up to tests and be aware of coursework deadlines.

• Help your child catch up with missed work – a missed day should not mean missed work.

Attendance is key to success.

Please be aware that if your child’s attendance is 90% and below, they will be known as a ‘persistent absentee’. This could result in the Educational Welfare Office becoming involved. If you wish to discuss further please do not hesitate to contact the Attendance Office.

Our students should be in school on time every day, unless the reason for absence is absolutely unavoidable. It is very important that families recognise their responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time. 98% attendance is a realistic and achievable target for all students that allows for the occasional emergency or sick absence.

The Attendance Office is open daily from 7.30am to 3.30pm. If you have any concerns or issues relating to attendance do not hesitate to contact the Attendance Team on 01234 334528 or at attendance@biddenham.beds.sch.uk.

Our Attendance Policy.