Attendance

Attendance Policy

Fortnightly Class Attendance Winners

Each fortnight the class with the highest attendance receives a certificate

(last 8 weeks).

Attendance Matters at Bursted Wood Primary School

Why is Attendance so important?

We are seeing a concerning rise in absences during term time. In line with national guidance (Working Together to Improve School Attendance, August 2024), we are taking a firmer stance on attendance.

• Every day counts: Each school day builds on the last. Missing even a few days can disrupt learning and make it harder for students to catch up.
• Good habits last a lifetime: Regular attendance helps children develop routines, responsibility, and resilience—skills that are essential for success in school and beyond.
• Social and emotional growth: Being in school helps children build friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

Unauthorised absence and holiday

• Holidays during term time are not authorised. 
• 10 or more unauthorised sessions (5 school days) may result in a fine.
• Continued unauthorised absences could lead to further legal action.

Let’s work together to build strong attendance habits that last a lifetime. Your support makes a real difference.

How We Support You

Our Attendance Team is here to help. If you’re facing challenges with attendance or punctuality, we’re ready to listen and support you with:

• Advice and resources
• Help overcoming barriers
• Regular check-ins when patterns of absence arise

📧 Contact us: attendance@burstedwood.school

Mrs L Harborne & Miss E Bonner
Bursted Wood Attendance Team

Reporting an Absence

If your child is absent (except for 48-hour sickness or long-term medical recovery), please notify us before 9:00 AM each day:

• 📞 Call the absence line: 0208 304 9960
• 📧 Email: absence@burstedwood.school
• 📱 Message via the School Gateway app (for absences only)

For all other queries, please email: admin@burstedwood.school

Punctuality Matters

Children must be in class by 8:50 AM for registration.

• Arrivals after 8:50 AM = Late mark
• Arrivals after 9:00 AM = Unauthorised late mark

We understand that traffic and parking can be difficult. If you’re struggling with punctuality, please speak to us—we’re here to help.

Medical Appointments

Where possible, please book appointments outside school hours. If unavoidable, we ask that appointments be made after 2:00 PM or during holidays.

If your child must attend a medical appointment during school hours, please provide one of the following:

• Appointment card
• Letter from the provider
• Confirmation text message

Evidence can be emailed or shown at the school office.