WORKING TOGETHER
Supporting every child's attendance.
We understand that children can sometimes be unwell or that families may experience circumstances which affect attendance. We encourage parents and carers to communicate with school as early as possible so that any concerns can be understood and appropriate support considered.
This page brings together our school attendance policy, information about leave of absence during term time and Telford & Wrekin Council's guidance on penalty notices.
INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES
What do I need to do?
A few simple steps help us keep children safe and support their education.
01 / REPORT AN ABSENCE
Keep us informed.
If your child cannot attend school, please contact the school office promptly and explain the reason for their absence. Follow the school's attendance policy for reporting requirements.
01952 388450 →02 / REQUEST LEAVE
Speak to school first.
Term-time leave may only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. Requests should be submitted to the school for the Headteacher's consideration before any planned absence.
Leave of absence guidance ↗03 / ASK FOR SUPPORT
We're here to help.
If your child is finding attendance difficult, please speak with us. Working together can help identify barriers and explore practical support.
Contact our school →
UNDERSTANDING THE RULES
Unauthorised absence and penalty notices.
National arrangements set out when schools and local authorities must consider a penalty notice. A penalty notice is not automatic in every case, and decisions must take account of the circumstances and the relevant guidance.
NATIONAL THRESHOLD
10 sessions
Usually equivalent to five school days of unauthorised absence within a rolling 10-school-week period. This is the threshold at which a penalty notice must be considered.
FIRST PENALTY NOTICE
£80
Per parent, per child, if paid within 21 days. The amount increases to £160 if paid during days 22–28.
Important: A second penalty notice within three years is £160 per parent, per child, payable within 28 days. A third offence within that period may lead to alternative action, including consideration of prosecution, rather than another penalty notice. The council may also exercise discretion in certain cases before the national threshold is reached.
The local Code of Conduct was reviewed in September 2026. The official documents provide the full eligibility criteria and procedures.
SUPPORTING FAMILIES
If attendance is difficult, talk to us.
Attendance difficulties can arise for many reasons, including illness, anxiety, family circumstances or additional needs. It is important that families feel able to discuss concerns with school.
The council's attendance guidance emphasises early intervention and appropriate support where barriers exist. Our aim is to understand the situation and work together to help children attend school regularly.
DOCUMENTS AND GUIDANCE
Everything in one place.
Access our school policy and the supporting local authority documents.
01 / SCHOOL POLICY
Attendance and Absence Policy
Our school's 2026 policy setting out its approach to managing attendance and absence.
View policy PDF ↗02 / PARENT GUIDANCE
Leave of Absence Leaflet
Telford & Wrekin Council guidance explaining term-time leave requests and possible consequences of unauthorised absence.
View leaflet PDF ↗03 / LOCAL AUTHORITY
Penalty Notice Code of Conduct
The council's local code setting out how penalty notices are considered and administered. Reviewed September 2026.
View council code ↗THE BEATING HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY
Here to learn.
Here to belong.
Good attendance is a shared responsibility, and positive communication between home and school makes a difference. If you have questions about attendance or need support, please get in touch.
Contact our school →| Filename | Size | Date |
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| Teagues_Bridge_Attendance_and_Absence_Policy_2026_Correct... | 2.3MB | 05/11/2026 |
