When does my child need to be in the school?

Your child should be in the school in plenty of time for registration. They are expected to be in registration by 8.45am, therefore, it is recommended that students arrive no later than 8.40am to allow time to get through the gates, collect their winbook’s and have a settled start to the day.

What happens if my child is late?

If your child arrives after 8.45am, they will be marked as late, which may lead to a detention.

If your child arrives after the register closes at 9.05am, they will receive a ‘U Code’, which will be marked as an unauthorised absence for that morning having arrived after closing the registers.

What are the procedures for absence?

If your child is absent, you must:

• Contact us as soon as possible on the first day of absence.
• You must contact us each day the child is absent.

If your child is absent, we will:

• Contact you on the first day of absence (if we have not heard from you)
• Contact you regularly if absences persist.
• Undertake home visits.
• Invite you to discuss the situation with our Attendance Officer and/relevant or other key staff.

What can I do to help my child achieve good attendance?

• Explain the importance of going to school every day.
• Set clear goals and track progress
• Ensure regular and early bedtimes.
• Have uniform and equipment prepared the night before.
• Report any academic or social concerns promptly.
• Keep open and honest communication with the school.
• Discuss your child’s timetable/lessons with them each evening.
• Have a backup plan for transport concerns.

Why is it important to have up-to-date phone numbers?

There are times when we have to contact parents/carers about things, including absence, so it is very important that we have your contact number at all times. Providing up-to-date contact details is a legal obligation of parents/carers.

My child is avoiding coming to school. What should I do?

There are occasions when children choose to avoid school. Reasons such as difficulties with schoolwork, bullying, friendship problems or family difficulties can cause young people to worry, and they may think that not attending school will solve the problem.

All staff at CCS pride themselves on being able to build positive relationships with students and parents/carers. We want your child to have the best possible experience, so that they can reach their full potential.

It is important that we identify the reason for their reluctance to attend school and work together to solve the problem.  If a problem does arise, you should contact your child’s tutor in the first instance, or your child can report their concerns to their Head of Year or a member of the Pastoral team/Safeguarding team.

Useful Links for Attendance

NHS Guide: Is My Child Too Ill For School?

DFE Guidance: Working Together to Improve School Attendance