In response to the increase in students arriving late and departing school early,  disrupting classroom learning, we wish to remind parents/carers of the legal responsibility for parents/carers to ensure regular attendance at school.

We understand, on occasion, your child may need to be absent from school. Justified reasons for student absences may include;

• being sick, or having an infectious disease
• having an unavoidable medical appointment
• being required to attend a recognised religious holiday
• exceptional or urgent family circumstance (eg. attending a funeral).

Parents must provide an explanation for absences to the school within 7 days from the first day of any period of absence. Where an explanation has not been received within the 7-day timeframe, the school will record the absence as unexplained on the student's record.

Lateness and early departures are recorded as a partial absence and must also be explained by parents/carers.  In order to adhere to our regularity obligation, staff will be asking for evidence of medical appointments (eg. letter from medical professional, copy of appointment confirmation, medical certificate) to record as a justified reason. Early signouts/late arrivals will be recorded as 'unjustified' without a reasonable explanation and evidence. 

It is important for your child to arrive at school on time as it;

• ensures that students do not miss out on important learning activities scheduled early in the day
• helps students learn the importance of punctuality and routine
• gives students time to greet their friends before class
• reduces classroom disruption

Please note, inclement weather is not an acceptable reason to be signing your child out early. Regular attendance at school is essential for students to achieve quality life outcomes. Schools, in partnership with parents, are responsible for promoting the regular attendance of students.

Mr Paton

School Principal