Going to school regularly is important for every child's future. Parents are responsible for making sure that their children receive a full-time education.

At Bishop’s Castle Primary set high expectations about attendance from Reception to Year 6. If your child has a place in our nursery or school, we expect them to attend. It is every child's right to attend.

Our approach to attendance is evidence informed and child centred. We have created a welcoming environment to allow all children to gain a sense of belonging and ultimately achieve academically through regular school attendance. All staff have been trained in our approach and understand their roles in improving attendance. Bishop’s Castle Primary we use our whole curriculum to enable every child to feel valued and to shine. It is within this context that we strive to ensure each child's attendance is good.

We record details of every child's attendance and absence from school. We do this at the start of each morning and afternoon session. If your child is absent, please inform the school on 01588 638522 or email admin@bishopscastle-pri.shropshire.sch.uk

 The Local Authority receives this attendance information for each child and the Department for Education received attendance data for each school.

Your responsibilities as a parent:

By law, all children of compulsory school age must receive a suitable full-time education. For most parents this means registering their child at a school. Once your child is registered at our school you are legally responsible for making sure that they attend on a regular basis. If your child does not attend school on a regular basis, we will talk with you about this and make a plan to improve it.  You could also be subject to a fine or to be prosecuted in court.

If your child is absent, please let us know on the first day of absence on 01588 8638522 or admin@bishopscastle-pri.shropshire.sch.uk

 We aim to listen, understand and empathise with attendance but always seek improvements.

You can prevent your child missing school by:

• Recognising the vital importance of good attendance and punctuality
• Taking an interest in your child's education
• Discussing any problems they may have at school and letting the school know
• Not letting children take time off for minor ailments, particularly those which would not prevent you from going to work
• Arranging appointments and outings after school hours, at weekends or holiday times
• Coming into school late if the alarm goes off or your child oversleeps. It is better to come into school late than not at all.

You should not expect Bishops Castle Primary School to agree to your child going on holiday during term time.

Further information can be found on the DfE website.