We are delighted to share that we have received an incredible four National School Attendance Awards for the 2025/26 academic year!

⭐ Top 25% of all FFT Primary Schools in England

⭐ Top 25% of similar FFT Primary Schools in England

⭐ Top 25% Most Improved FFT Primary Schools in England

⭐ Top 25% of similar FFT Primary Schools in England for the Summer Term

These awards recognise the outstanding commitment of our pupils, families and staff in promoting excellent attendance. We know that every day in school counts, and these achievements reflect the strong partnership we have built together to ensure our children have the very best opportunities to learn, grow and succeed.

Thank you to all of our parents and carers for your continued support, and a massive well done to our amazing children for their dedication to being in school and ready to learn each day.

Attendance and Punctuality

Working together for good attendance.

At St Edward’s, we believe that regular school attendance is essential for every child to achieve their potential, develop positive relationships and grow in confidence and resilience.

We recognise that there may be times when families experience difficulties affecting attendance. We are committed to working in partnership with parents and carers to identify barriers, offer support and help every child access their education.

Attendance is also an important part of our safeguarding responsibilities. We monitor attendance carefully and work with families and relevant agencies where concerns arise.

Our Expectations

Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to ensure that their child attends school regularly and punctually.

We ask all families to:

- Ensure children attend school every day unless they are unable to do so for a valid reason.

- Ensure children arrive on time.

- Inform school promptly of any absence and explain the reason.

- Contact us if their child is reluctant to attend or if there are difficulties affecting attendance.

If you have concerns about your child’s attendance, please speak to the school. We are here to listen and work with you to find solutions.

Leave of absence during term time

Under the Education (Pupil Registration) (England) Regulations 2024, the Headteacher may only grant leave of absence during term time in exceptional circumstances.

- All requests must be submitted in writing, in advance, using the school’s leave of absence request form (which can be found below).

- Each request will be considered individually by the Headteacher.

- Family holidays and leisure trips will not normally be considered exceptional circumstances.

- Parents and carers should not make non-refundable bookings before receiving written confirmation of the school’s decision.

- Where leave is not authorised, the absence will be recorded as unauthorised.

Missing school can affect children’s learning, progress and wellbeing. We therefore encourage families to avoid term-time absences wherever possible.

Unauthorised absence and penalty notices

Where a child has unauthorised absences, the school may work with the local authority to address attendance concerns. Where the relevant criteria are met, this may result in a penalty notice or further legal action.

Under the national framework in England, a penalty notice may be considered when a pupil has accumulated 10 sessions of unauthorised absence within a rolling period of 10 school weeks.

For a first penalty notice, the fine is £80 if paid within 21 days, increasing to £160 if paid within 28 days. Further penalty notices and legal action may apply in accordance with national guidance.

Our commitment to families

At St Edward’s, we want every child to feel safe, supported and ready to learn. By working together, we can help children develop positive attendance habits and make the most of every opportunity school provides.

If you need advice or support with attendance, please contact the school office.

What should I do when my child is unwell?

You should contact school on the first day of absence and each day thereafter BEFORE 08:30 am and leave a message for the office team via the absence line on 01254 701616.