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Policy for granting leave of absence in term time

Dear Parents and Carers

Please note that there is no automatic entitlement to take holidays in term time.

Up to 10 days authorised absence for holidays can only be granted in exceptional circumstance.

Criteria for assessing requests for leave of absence

Leave of absence will not be considered during the following periods or circumstances:

• During the period of Statutory Assessment Tasks (SATs) May 11th-15th 2009
• During the Spring term prior to year 2 Assessments and Year 6 SATs
• When a pupil’s absence has fallen below 93%. 
• Where absence for holidays (authorised or unauthorised) has already been taken within the year.

Leave of absence will only be granted in exceptional circumstances outside the periods and restrictions detailed above.

Procedure for applying for leave of absence for holiday or other family reasons.

• Formal request for leave of absence is made using the appropriate form from the school office prior to the date of the requested absence.
• Completed forms returned to school for approval.
• Approval / Refusal of application

Where the school and parent/carers fail to reach an agreement and the pupil is then absent from school, the absence will be registered as G unauthorised holiday.

Any unauthorised absence over 10 sessions may result in a request for a Fixed Penalty Notice can be made.

The Education Welfare officer is available to discuss issues concerning this policy. Requests for a meeting can be made through the school.

S. Mapplebeck