Attendance
At Kitchener Primary School, we recognise that good attendance plays an important role in supporting children’s learning, wellbeing and overall development. We work closely with families to encourage regular attendance and to support pupils who may be experiencing difficulties.
Why Attendance Matters
Regular attendance helps children to:
- Develop consistent routines and positive learning habits
- Build strong relationships with peers and staff
- Make good academic progress
- Feel confident, settled and included in school life
There are 190 school days in an academic year. Missing even a small number of days can have a significant impact on learning and wellbeing.
Attendance Expectations
In line with Welsh Government and Cardiff Council guidance, schools are required to monitor attendance closely.
We expect all pupils to attend school regularly and on time, unless they are unwell or there are exceptional circumstances.
Holidays during term time are not authorised. If a child is absent for 10 sessions (5 school days) or more without authorisation, the Local Authority may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN).
If a pupil’s attendance falls below 92%, or if patterns of unauthorised absence occur, the school will work closely with families to offer support and identify any barriers to regular attendance.
In cases where a child is absent for an extended period without authorisation, further action may be taken in line with local authority guidance.
Unauthorised Absence During Term Time
At Kitchener Primary School, we want all pupils to achieve their full potential. In line with Cardiff Council’s Attendance Policy, holidays or visits that take place during term time are not authorised, as they can have a significant impact on children’s learning and wellbeing.
If parents or carers choose to take their child out of school during term time, they are required to complete a Pupil Unauthorised Holiday Form (Available Below). This form ensures that families are fully informed of attendance guidance and that the school can maintain accurate safeguarding and attendance records.
Please note that completing this form does not mean the absence will be authorised.
Important Information for Parents and Carers
- If a child is absent for 10 sessions (5 school days) or more without authorisation, the Local Authority may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN).
- If a child is absent for 20 consecutive school days without authorisation, they may be removed from the school register and parents will be required to reapply for a school place.
- The school cannot guarantee re-admittance in these circumstances.
- Failure to return on the agreed date may result in a referral to statutory authorities, as a child missing from education may be considered at risk.
The Pupil Unauthorised Holiday Form is available from the school office and must be completed before the absence takes place.
Late Arrival
Arriving late to school can be disruptive to learning. If a child arrives after the register has closed, this will be recorded as an unauthorised absence for that session.
Persistent lateness may result in further follow-up and support being offered.
Working Together
We understand that families may experience challenges that affect attendance. Our aim is always to work in partnership with parents and carers to provide support at the earliest opportunity.
If you are experiencing difficulties that may impact your child’s attendance, please contact the school so that we can work together to find appropriate support.
Useful Information
Further guidance on school attendance is available from Cardiff Council and Welsh Government.
For advice or support, please contact the school office.
