Pupil Absence: Guidelines for Parents and Guardians

At Harlow Fields School and College, we understand that there are times when pupils may be unable to attend school. It is essential to ensure that absences are managed effectively to support our pupils' education and well-being. Below are the circumstances under which pupils should not attend school and the procedures for reporting an absence.

When Should Pupils Not Attend School?

Pupils should not attend school under the following circumstances:

  1. Illness: If a pupil is unwell, whether due to physical or mental health issues, they should remain at home. Common illnesses include colds, flu, stomach bugs, and other contagious conditions.   If a pupil experiences diarrhoea or vomiting, they should remain at home for at least 48 hours after their last episode. This precaution helps to prevent the spread of illness to other pupils and staff within the school. Parents are encouraged to notify the school of their child's absence as soon as possible to ensure proper record-keeping and support for the pupil's return to school.
  2. Medical Appointments: Pupils may need to attend medical or dental appointments during school hours. In such cases, parents should inform the school in advance.
  3. Infectious Diseases: If a pupil has been diagnosed with an infectious disease (e.g., chickenpox, measles), they should stay home to prevent spreading the illness to others. Guidance from health authorities should be followed regarding the duration of absence.
  4. Travel Disruptions: In cases of widespread travel disruption due to emergencies (e.g., severe weather, transport strikes), pupils may be unable to attend school.
  5. Exclusions: If a pupil is suspended or excluded from school, they will not attend until alternative provisions are arranged.
  6. Holidays: If a pupil is taken out of school for a holiday that has not been approved by the school, this will be recorded as an unauthorised absence.

How to Report an Absence

To ensure that absences are recorded accurately and appropriately, please follow these steps:

  1. Notify the School: Parents or guardians should inform the school on the first day of absence. This can be done by calling the school office or sending an email to admin@harlowfields.essex.sch.uk 
  2. Provide Details: When reporting an absence, please include the pupil's name, class, the reason for the absence, and the expected duration of the absence.
  3. Follow-Up: If the absence extends beyond one day, please provide updates to the school regarding the pupil's condition and expected return date.
  4. Medical Evidence: In most cases, a parent's notification is sufficient. However, there may be times when the school requests medical evidence.
  5. Return to School: Once the pupil is well enough to return, please ensure they are ready to engage in their learning and catch up on any missed work (where possible).  

Attending school is crucial for pupils as it not only supports their academic attainment but also plays a significant role in their overall wellbeing and future life chances. The law mandates that every child of compulsory school age is entitled to receive a full-time education that is suitable to their age and special educational needs. Parents have a legal responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly, except in specific circumstances such as illness or pre-approved absences. Failure to comply with this legal obligation can result in prosecution by the local authority, highlighting the seriousness of maintaining school attendance. Regular attendance is particularly vital for vulnerable pupils, as it serves as a protective factor against various risks, including involvement in crime and other negative outcomes. Therefore, fostering a supportive and engaging school environment is essential to encourage consistent attendance, which is foundational to a pupil's success and development.