Attendance

In the event of a pupil’s absence from school, parents or carers are requested to telephone the school prior to the start of school, or at least by 9.30 am, in order to provide a reason for the absence.

Children do not need to be absent from school for minor coughs, sniffles, mild headaches or just under the weather.  If a member of staff believes they are not well enough to remain in school, parents/carers will be contacted.

In line with our policy of safeguarding children the school may ring you after that time or make a home visit if you have not been able to contact us.

Please avoid making dental/doctors/optician appointments during the school day; if an appointment is absolutely necessary please show your   appointment card/letter (preferably  in advance) to the office as evidence for this absence.

Holidays in term time

Any holidays during term time are to be discouraged.

Please consider the following:

While you are away for 1 week your child will miss approximately:

  • 5 hours of Maths
  • 7.5 hours of English
  • 10 hours of science, religious education, music, art, physical education, geography, history, design & technology and information technology

If your child has a holiday of 2 weeks during term time and has a 1 week period of sickness in one school year they will miss:

  • 15 hours of English
  • 22.5 hours of Maths
  • 30 hours of learning other subjects

If this pattern were to be repeated throughout your child’s school life they would miss 36 weeks of their education!

One School Year = 39 school weeks!

Ask yourself – Can my child keep up with other children if they miss out on 60 hours of education a year?

Thinking of taking a holiday in term time? Please think again!

The Headteacher may not grant any leave of absence, including those for holidays, to pupils during term time unless they consider there to be an ‘exceptional circumstance’.

‘Exceptional circumstance’ means that the parent must make the case as to why their child should be treated differently to the norm. All requests will be treated on an individual case by case basis.

Parents/carers should make a request for authorised absence in term time, only if absolutely necessary, as these are not automatically authorised. Parents/carers need to request a ‘Holiday Form’, which needs to be completed 4 weeks prior to the leave of absence date.  These are available from the school office.

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Ofsted

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Parent testimonials

‘Expert leadership in English and mathematics has improved pupil learning.’

Ofsted

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Ofsted

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Parent testimonials

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Ofsted

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Parent testimonials

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Ofsted

‘All pupils, including disadvantaged and SEND students, are making improved progress.’

Ofsted

‘ Pupils’ behavior is good, with positive attitudes to learning and effective management of behavior.’

Ofsted

‘Pupil support from teaching assistants is of high quality.’

Ofsted

‘Safeguarding arrangements are effective, and leaders work with agencies to support families.’

Ofsted

‘PE and sport funding has raised the profile of physical education.’

Ofsted

‘The school has improved outcomes, particularly in reading, writing, and mathematics.’

Ofsted

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Ofsted

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Ofsted

‘Detailed plans for school improvement are in place and funding is used effectively.’

Ofsted

‘Approachability of teachers and support staff is great, I’ve never felt that I’ve been too much trouble when needing to speak to staff.’

Parent testimonials

‘Leaders in English and mathematics have raised the quality of teaching and achievement.’

Ofsted

‘The school promotes pupils’ personal development and welfare effectively.’

Ofsted

‘Vocabulary development is a focus, and teaching is adapted for pupils with SEND.’

Ofsted

‘My child has progressed very well and is always happy when leaving school and ready to start the next day.’

Parent testimonials

‘Pupils enjoy coming to school and have a secure understanding of British values.’

Ofsted

‘Westcott is a lovely school. I feel like my children have really progressed whilst being here.’

Parent testimonials

‘Parents and carers are supportive of the school, and staff are positive about their work.’

Ofsted

‘The early years setting is good, and children make good progress.’

Ofsted

‘The school always provides up to date information about what the children have been doing on Twitter.’

Parent testimonials

‘Funding for pupils with SEND is used effectively, and the trust provides valuable support.’

Ofsted

‘I like that both my children are supported and happy in school. Its great that I am able to speak with teachers and time is always made for parents.’

Parent testimonials

‘Middle leaders have identified strengths and areas for improvement and have made an immediate impact.’

Ofsted