Purpose of the Policy
Regular attendance is important for a child’s early learning and development. This policy sets out our expectations for attendance, procedures for reporting absences, and steps we take to safeguard children when attendance is irregular or unexplained.
Aims
- To promote consistent attendance and punctuality.
- To ensure children access their full entitlement to early education.
- To safeguard children by monitoring attendance closely.
- To work in partnership with parents/carers to support good attendance.
Attendance Expectations
- Children should attend all booked sessions unless unwell or there is another valid reason for absence.
- Parents/carers should bring their child on time and collect them promptly.
Reporting Absence
- Parents/carers must inform the setting before the session begins if their child will be absent, stating the reason.
- Absences can be reported by messaging or mark your child absent on the Famly app stating the reason for absence.
- If no contact is received, the setting will follow safeguarding procedures (see below).
Authorised and Unauthorised Absence
- Authorised absences include illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, or agreed holidays.
- Unauthorised absences include absences without explanation, frequent lateness, or absences not agreed with the setting.
Safeguarding Procedures
- If a child is absent and parents/carers have not made contact, staff will attempt to make contact using all known numbers.
- If staff are unable to make contact and are concerned for the child’s welfare, the setting will follow its safeguarding policy, which may involve contacting the Local Authority or other agencies.
Monitoring Attendance
- Attendance is recorded daily.
- Patterns of frequent absence, lateness, or irregular attendance will be discussed with parents/carers.
- Where necessary, advice and support will be offered to families to help improve attendance.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Parents/carers are responsible for ensuring their child attends regularly and on time.
- Staff are responsible for accurately recording attendance and following up on absences.
- The manager is responsible for monitoring attendance records and ensuring safeguarding procedures are followed
