Attendance

Absence and Attendance at SNHS

At Sturminster Newton High School, we are committed to ensuring every student receives the full-time education they are entitled to. Excellent attendance is vital for academic success, wellbeing, and safeguarding.

Our Expectations

• All students are expected to attend school and arrive on time
• Attendance is monitored daily, weekly, and termly.
• Students falling below 95% will be supported and challenged to improve.
• Attendance contributes to our 100 Score reward system.

How to Report an Absence

If your child is unable to attend school:

• Please report their absence before 9:00am on each day they are absent.
• You can report absence via:
  • The Arbor Parent App
  • Logging into Arbor on the web

If no contact is received, we will follow up with calls, emails, and may conduct a welfare visit to ensure your child’s safety.

Authorised Absence

Absence may be authorised for:

• Illness (including mental health)
• Medical or dental appointments
• Religious observance
• Exceptional circumstances (e.g. bereavement, regulated employment abroad)

Requests for term-time absence must be submitted in advance using the Leave of Absence Request Form. Holidays during term time are not authorised unless deemed exceptional.

Unauthorised Absence and Penalties

• Absence without a valid reason may result in a Penalty Notice.
• The threshold is 10 unauthorised sessions in 10 school weeks.
• Fines start at £80 per parent, rising to £160 if unpaid after 21 days.

Lateness

• Students must arrive by 8:25am for registration at 8:30am.
• Arrivals after 9:00am are marked as unauthorised late (U code).
• Repeated lateness may result in lunchtime or after-school consequences.

Supporting Students

We offer tailored support for students with:

• Long-term illness or medical needs
• SEND or EHCPs
• Mental health challenges
• Anxiety or barriers to attendance

Support may include phased returns, mentoring, SEMH support, and referrals to external agencies.

Helpful Links for Parents

• Dorset County Council School Attendance Guidance for Parents [dorsetcouncil.gov.uk]
• NHS Guidance: Is My Child Too Ill for School? [nhs.uk]
• Dorset Council Support for School Attendance [dorsetcouncil.gov.uk]