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Ashgate Croft School

Attendance and Absence

Attendance and Absence

At Ashgate Croft, we are committed to preparing all pupils for their futures. Good attendance plays a vital role in this, which is why we ask parents and carers to ensure that family holidays and planned events take place during the official school holiday periods.

Term-Time Leave

The law states that Headteachers can only authorise a leave of absence during term time in exceptional circumstances, and these must be considered on an individual basis.

If you believe your situation is exceptional, you must submit a request in advance, providing any supporting evidence. The Headteacher will review the information provided and take into account your child’s previous attendance record before making a decision.

Please note: requests that do not meet the threshold for exceptional circumstances will be declined, and any unauthorised absence may result in further action in line with our attendance procedures.

To request a leave of absence during term time, please complete the form using the link below:

APPLICATION BY PARENT/CARER FOR PUPIL LEAVE OF ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL DURING TERM TIME

Parent FAQs: Requesting Leave During Term Time

1. Can I take my child on holiday during term time?

No. By law, Headteachers cannot authorise holidays during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances. Family holidays should always be planned during official school holiday periods.

2. What counts as “exceptional circumstances”?

Exceptional circumstances are rare, and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Examples might include:

  • A close family bereavement
  • A significant, one‑off family event that cannot reasonably be rearranged
  • Specific service personnel leave

Please note: financial reasons or convenience do not qualify as exceptional.

3. How do I request a leave of absence?

You must complete the school’s Leave of Absence Request Form before the planned absence.
👉 APPLICATION BY PARENT/CARER FOR PUPIL LEAVE OF ABSENCE FROM SCHOOL DURING TERM TIME

Requests cannot be approved retrospectively.

4. Do I need to provide evidence?

Yes. If you believe your situation is exceptional, you must provide relevant evidence with your application. This helps the Headteacher make a fair and informed decision.

5. Will my request be approved?

Approval is not guaranteed. The Headteacher will review:

  • The details of the exceptional circumstances
  • Any evidence provided
  • Your child’s attendance record, including previous absences

If the circumstances do not meet the criteria, the request will be declined.

6. What happens if I take my child out of school without permission?

The absence will be recorded as unauthorised.
Unauthorised absences may lead to involvement from the Local Authority, which can include:

Additional support or interventions

A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN)

Further attendance monitoring

7. Why does attendance matter so much?

Regular attendance helps your child:

  • Keep up with learning
  • Build strong routines
  • Maintain friendships
  • Prepare for adulthood

Check out our Attendance Policy for further information
Attendance Policy