The most important thing to us is that your child learns and makes progress. We also wish to ensure that they are happy in school and achieve their potential. The best way to achieve this is regular attendance at school. The Law states that all school age children (between 5 & 16) must attend school. Parents are responsible for making sure their child attends school regularly and the Local Authority may take legal action if you fail to do this.

As a school we do not authorise holidays during term time unless there are “exceptional circumstances”. This will only be granted by the Headteacher if school have had prior notice in writing. We follow Government Policy because of the clear links between attendance and attainment. Please note that any Unauthorised Absence may lead to a penalty notice.

Please read the attached Attendance Policy for further information.

Reporting an absence

If your child is absent from school due to illness, medical appointment or some other reason we ask that you contact school, either by telephone on 01440 763933 or dedicated absence e mail – admin@coupalsacademy.co.uk. If we have not heard why your child is not at school by 9.15 am we will contact you and any of your other contacts until we are able to speak to someone who can confirm why your child is absent.

Leave of absence: If you are requesting time away from school for any other reason than illness, please complete the Absence Request Form obtained from the school Office. We would ask that you read the “Criteria for absence” before you consider this action. In the case of holidays, these will only be deemed an authorised absence if there are extenuating circumstances. Please be understanding of the school’s rigor in enforcing this policy. School days are precious to a child’s learning and each day is classed as two sessions. If a child misses 10 days of school each academic year they miss approximately 2 terms of schooling overall from the ages of 5 – 16.

If we have not heard why your child is not at school by 9.15 am we will contact you and any of your other contacts until we are able to speak to someone who can confirm why your child is absent. We, like many other schools have adopted this procedure to help us ensure your child is safe. If after careful consideration of the ‘Absence Criteria’ you still decide that absence from school is required please collect your form from the school office.