Attendance and Punctuality
Attendance and punctuality are essential for academic success. When students attend school regularly, they are able to learn the material and participate in class activities. They are also more likely to develop positive relationships with their teachers and classmates. Punctuality is important for the same reasons. When students arrive to school on time, they are ready to learn and they do not disrupt the learning of others.
Students can show self-responsibility by coming to school every day and by being on time to school and lessons. Students should show self help by using their student portal app to check their timetables before the school day starts to ensure they know where they are going.
Any pupil arriving later than registration should enter school via the main entrance reporting to the school office. If accompanied, a parent/carer should give a reason for the lateness, which will be added to the register. The pupil will then be sent to their classroom. Where persistent lateness gives cause for concern a Penalty Notice may be issued. Pupils who are consistently late are disrupting not only their own education but also that of others. Arriving late can be embarrassing for the pupil which may then encourage further absence. Good timekeeping is an important life skill which will help our pupils as they move through their school life and out into the wider world.
Late arrival the beginning of the school day, to any lesson and/or tutor registration will incur a late mark.
Absence reporting
To report a student's absence from school please call the main school number (01375 470790) and choose option 2
or email attendance.tss@osborne.coop
To request a leave of absence please click here to complete a leave of absence request.
Time off due to illness
Medical evidence to be provided within 24 hours where possible.
Medical appointments will not be authorised without medical evidence.
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Illness |
Time off school required |
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Chickenpox |
At least 5 days from the onset of the rash and until all blisters have crusted over |
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Diarrhoea and Vomiting |
24 hours after their last episode |
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Cold and flu-like illness (including COVID-19) |
They no longer have a high temperature and feel well enough to attend. |
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Impetigo |
Their sores have crusted and healed, or 48 hours after they started antibiotics |
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Measles |
4 days after the rash first appeared |
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Mumps |
5 days after the swelling started |
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Scabies |
They’ve had their first treatment |
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Scarlet fever |
24 hours after they started taking antibiotics |
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Whooping cough |
48 hours after they started taking antibiotics |
No absence is required for the conditions below but please do inform the school if a students has any of the following:
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Hand, foot and mouth |
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Head lice |
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Threadworms |
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Glandular fever |
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Tonsillitis |
N.B Students no longer need to be tested for Covid 19 unless requested by a medical professional.
Attendance Matters
Year 7
"At the start of your secondary school journey, attending school every day in Year 7 is absolutely essential as it puts you in good stead going forward. Your daily attendance allows you to grow your confidence and shows resilience, build relationships with peers and members of staff, receive the best quality teaching from excellent teachers and provide you opportunities to explore a range of extracurricular activities. School is a wonderful place to be, look forward to coming to school every day and having lots of fun."
Mr I Paraiwa - Head of Year 7
Year 8
"Did you know that even a few missed school days can significantly impact a child’s learning and confidence? Regular attendance is one of the most important factors in your child’s academic and personal success.
When your child is in school every day, they:
- Stay on track with lessons, making learning easier and less stressful.
- Build stronger relationships with teachers and classmates, boosting their social skills.
- Develop important life habits like punctuality and responsibility.
Every school day counts. By ensuring your child attends school consistently, you’re setting them up for success—not just now, but in the future.
If there’s anything preventing your child from attending regularly, please let us know. We’re here to help.
Thank you for your support in helping your child thrive!"
Mr J Fadojutimi - Head of Year 8
Year 9
"Why is attendance important in Year 9?
Year 9 is a key foundation year before starting your GCSE courses.
Topics you learn now build the skills and knowledge you’ll need for success in Years 10 and 11.
Poor attendance means missed learning, which makes it harder to keep up and can affect your confidence and progress.
Your attendance is monitored closely and can impact future options, including subjects you choose and post-16 pathways.
What support is available if you're struggling to attend?
If you’re finding it hard to come to school regularly, you’re not alone, and there are people who can help:
Form Tutor or Head of Year: Speak to them about any concerns – they're here to support you.
School Counsellor or Wellbeing Team: For personal or emotional challenges affecting your attendance.
Attendance Officer: Can work with families to understand and improve attendance barriers.
Flexible or reduced timetables in certain cases, as a temporary support measure.
What are the positives of good attendance?
Better academic results – students with higher attendance tend to achieve more.
Improved friendships – being in school regularly helps you stay connected.
Routine and structure – support your mental wellbeing and focus.
More confidence – the more you're in class, the more secure you'll feel about your learning.
Greater opportunities – good attendance helps when applying for college, apprenticeships or work experience.
Aim for at least 96% attendance – everyday counts!
If you're struggling, reach out – we’re here to help."
Mrs J Harrison - Head of Year 9
Year 10
"Regular attendance is key to your success in school. Every day you’re in class, you build knowledge, develop skills, and stay connected with your learning. Missing lessons can make it harder to catch up and affect your progress, especially as you prepare for important future steps like GCSEs. Be present, stay focused, and make every day count!"
Mr E Ankomah - Head of Year 10
Year 11
"Year 11 is a vital time—every lesson, every revision session, and every bit of support you access can make a huge difference in your GCSE results and your next steps after school. That’s why attendance is more important than ever. Every day in school is a chance to grow in confidence, build your knowledge, and work towards your goals.
We know it’s not always easy. If you're struggling to attend, we have a range of specific support in place for Year 11 students, including:
- Exam stress workshops and coping strategies
- Flexible support plans to help ease you back into routines if you've been off
- Access to our school counsellor or external mental health services if needed
- Regular parent/carer communication to keep everyone in the loop
If you need help, please reach out—whether it’s big or small. We’re here to support you every step of the way."
Mr M Hook - Head of Year 11