Attendance and Punctuality at OLSJ
At OLSJ, we believe that excellent attendance is non-negotiable — it is one of the most important factors in ensuring every child reaches their full potential.
According to the Department for Education (DfE), pupils with higher attendance achieve significantly better outcomes than those who miss school regularly. Recent DfE research (2023) found that pupils who miss just a few days of school each term are less likely to achieve expected standards in reading, writing, and maths and are also less likely to go on to achieve strong GCSE results. Regular attendance is not just about academic success — it supports positive friendships, emotional wellbeing, and a sense of belonging in school life.
We therefore expect all pupils to maintain attendance of 97% or above.
Daily Attendance Expectations
Arrival: Children should arrive at school by 8:30am (doors open at 8:15am).
Lateness: Pupils arriving after 8:35am will be recorded as late. Any child arriving after 9:00am will receive a U code, which counts as an unauthorised absence.
Absence Reporting: If your child is unable to attend school, please inform us as early as possible by calling the main telephone line (Option 1) or emailing OLSJattendance@olsj.romerocat.com
If no explanation is received, the school will contact you and may carry out a home visit. This is part of our standard safeguarding practice and helps us maintain a strong home–school partnership.
Rewards for Good Attendance
We love to celebrate excellent and improved attendance! Pupils are recognised through a range of rewards including form breakfasts, chocolate treats, raffle prizes (such as Gift Vouchers), and movie days.
Why Attendance Matters
We understand that there are genuine reasons for absence, such as illness. However, every school day counts. The DfE highlights that:
90% attendance (one day off per fortnight) means your child misses the equivalent of four weeks of school in a year.
80% attendance over five years equates to missing one whole year of education.
Regular attendance gives children the best possible chance to succeed both academically and socially. We greatly value and appreciate your support in helping us maintain this high standard.
Punctuality
Just as absence affects learning, lateness disrupts the start of lessons and impacts progress. Any pupil arriving after 8:30am will receive a same-day detention unless a valid reason is provided. Repeated lateness will be investigated by our Attendance Team.
Leave of Absence
Holidays should not be taken during term time. Requests for leave must be made in writing to the Headteacher, and authorisation will only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
Attendance and Punctuality Tips
Prepare school bags and uniforms the night before.
Ensure your child gets enough sleep.
Inform your child’s Form Teacher or Head of Year if you are experiencing difficulties getting to school.
Arrange routine appointments (e.g., dentist) outside school hours or during holidays. If unavoidable, bring your child to school before and after the appointment.
Support
If you have any concerns about your child’s attendance or would like additional support, please contact our Attendance and Educational Welfare Officers, Mrs Pearson or Mrs Bond. They are always here to help.
For further details, please see our Attendance Policy.