Attendance Expectations
At Paddock School, we expect all pupils to achieve 100% attendance wherever possible. Regular and consistent attendance is vital for ensuring pupils make steady academic progress, build strong relationships, and fully engage with the curriculum.
We recognise that occasional absence due to genuine illness or other unavoidable circumstances will occur. However, every day at school matters for your child's education and wellbeing, and we are committed to working with families to ensure all our pupils can attend school regularly and punctually.
Attendance Lead : Melanie Rogers
Email : foh@paddock.wandsworth.sch.uk
Reporting an absence
If your child is unable to attend school due to being unwell: As the parent/carer, you are responsible in law for ensuring your child attends school. You should inform the school by telephone (020 8878 1521) or through your personal Arbor App by 8.00am or as soon as possible stating the reason for this absence. A copy of all appointment letters must be submitted to the front office as proof of absence.
If an absence is for reasons other than sickness: Government regulations, implemented from 1st September 2013, state that Headteacher's may not grant any leave of absence during term time (e.g. family holidays) unless this time is deemed as an ‘exceptional circumstance’. It is expected that you request and submit a Special Leave Form from the school if you are taking your child out of school, this is to alleviate any concerns about the wellbeing and safety of the child.
It is important to note that the regulations state that absences can be authorised only by the school, not by the parents.