STUDENT Attendance
At Harper Green School, we believe that excellent attendance and punctuality are fundamental to every student's success. Regular attendance helps students achieve their full academic potential, develop positive relationships and take advantage of the many opportunities available both inside and outside the classroom.
We work closely with parents and carers to promote excellent attendance and provide support whenever it is needed. Together, we can help every student develop positive attendance habits that will benefit them throughout their education and beyond.
Attendance Matters
Academic achievement and attendance go hand in hand. Every lesson counts, and students who attend school regularly are more likely to make strong academic progress, enjoy school life and achieve the qualifications they need for future education, employment and training.
At Harper Green School, we expect all students to achieve 96% attendance or above. Where attendance falls below this, we will work closely with students and their families to understand any barriers and provide appropriate support to help improve attendance.
Reporting an Absence
If your child is unable to attend school, please notify the school by 9:00am on the first day of absence by calling 01204 572941.
When reporting an absence, please provide:
- Your name.
- Your child's name and year group.
- The reason for their absence.
If we do not receive a reason for your child's absence, or the reason provided is not considered valid, the absence will be recorded as unauthorised.
Where possible, routine medical, dental and other appointments should be arranged outside of the school day. If an appointment during school hours is unavoidable, please notify the school in advance and provide confirmation of the appointment where possible.
The school day begins at 8:40am, and students should arrive by 8:35am to ensure they are ready for registration and the start of lessons.
Please note: Unauthorised absences may result in a Penalty Notice or other legal action by the Local Authority, in accordance with Bolton Council's Code of Conduct and current government guidance.
View Your Child's Attendance
Our Attendance Team is here to support students and families throughout their time at Harper Green School.
Parents and carers can monitor their child's attendance through MyChildAtSchool (MCAS), where you can also view behaviour, timetables and other important school information.
If you have any concerns about your child's attendance, punctuality or wellbeing, please contact the school on 01204 572941. We understand that circumstances can sometimes affect attendance, and we will work with you to identify any barriers and discuss the support available.
Helpful information:
Term-Time Leave
Parents and carers should avoid taking holidays during term time, as they can have a significant impact on a student's education and progress.
Leave of absence during term time will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances, in accordance with current government guidance.
Unauthorised absence may result in a Penalty Notice or other legal action by the Local Authority.
Find out more about Term-Time Leave
Family Support
If attendance is being affected by wider circumstances, additional support may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my child is ill?
Please contact the school by 9:00am on the first day of absence and provide your child's name, year group and the reason for their absence.
Can I take my child on holiday during term time?
Leave of absence during term time will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances, in accordance with current government guidance. Unauthorised absence may result in a Penalty Notice or other legal action by the Local Authority.
How can I check my child's attendance?
Parents and carers can monitor their child's attendance through MyChildAtSchool (MCAS).
Who can I speak to if I am worried about my child's attendance?
Please contact the Attendance Team or your child's Pastoral Year Team. We will work with you to understand any barriers to attendance and discuss the support available.
Further Information
If you have any questions about your child's attendance or would like to discuss the support available, please contact the Attendance Team. We're here to work with you to ensure every student has the best possible opportunity to succeed.