Attendance
School Attendance Information
At Ravensbury Community school, we believe that regular attendance is vital for every child’s education and future success. Every day in school matters, and pupils who attend regularly achieve better socially, emotionally and academically.
Why Attendance Matters
Children who miss school can quickly fall behind in learning and friendships.
Good attendance helps build routine, resilience and a sense of belonging.
National research shows that pupils with higher attendance achieve better outcomes in reading, writing and maths.
The Law
In England, it is a parent’s legal duty to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time.
The government expects all pupils to have an attendance rate of at least 95%.
Only the Headteacher can authorise absence from school.
Parents may be fined if their child has unauthorised absences.
Reporting Absence
If your child is unwell or cannot attend school:
Contact the school office as soon as possible on the first day of absence.
Give a clear reason for the absence.
Keep the school updated if the absence continues.
Please be aware if you do not contact school - school will be making contact with you, which could include a home visit.
Authorised Absence
Absence will only be authorised for genuine reasons, such as:
Illness (with evidence if absences are frequent or prolonged)
Medical or dental appointments (please try to arrange outside of school hours)
Religious observance
Exceptional circumstances (these must be requested in advance in writing).
Unauthorised Absence
Absences will not be authorised for reasons such as:
Holidays during term time
Shopping trips, birthdays or family celebrations
Oversleeping or transport issues
Please be aware that we now have to follow very strict guidelines regarding attendance and will follow the following procedures for unauthorised attendance.
First period of unauthorised attendance (after 4 days) may result in a fine from Manchester City Council of £80 (if paid in 21 days) or £160 (if paid in 28 days) per child
And if within a three year period
Second period of unauthorised attendance could result in a fine from Manchester City Council of £160 per child
Third period of unauthorised attendance could result in court action from Manchester City Council.
Punctuality
Arriving on time is just as important as regular attendance.
Our school day starts at 8:45. Children arriving after (9 am) may be marked as late.
Persistent lateness affects learning and may be referred to the Local Authority.
Working Together
We monitor attendance closely and will contact families if concerns arise. Our aim is always to support children and families so that barriers to attendance can be removed.
If you are experiencing difficulties with attendance, please speak to us—we are here to help.