Important Changes to our Attendance Policy and Term Time Holidays
Dear parent / carer
After significant discussion in school with senior leaders and governors, as well as robust consultation with the Local Authority, we are changing our policy with regard to holidays taken during term time. All holidays taken from 1st January 2020 will be unauthorised unless there are exceptional circumstances. This will be assessed on a case by case basis.
This decision has not been taken lightly. I believe this is the best option to promote good attendance for all children. Our approach will now be consistent with schools across North Tyneside.
If you do need to request a leave of absence for your child, please complete our new online form, available on the attendance section of our website. If you choose to take your child out of school without prior authorisation, the absence will be deemed unauthorised.
The Local Authority will issue a Penalty Notice for any unauthorised leave of absence for term time holidays of five days or more. This is a fine of £60 if paid within 21 days of receipt, which will rise to £120 if the notice is paid after 21 days but within 28 days. If the Penalty is not paid in full by then end of the 28 day period the Local Authority may prosecute for the offence to which the notice applies. The Penalty will be issued to the parent who has chosen to take their child out of school.
Please click here to see a full copy of our Attendance Policy.
Yours sincerely
Kate Byrne
Headteacher
