Reporting Absences
What should parents do if their child is absent?
Telephone the school absence line on 01280 818923, or advise us via Edulink.
We endeavour to answer all telephone calls, but at busy times, and especially early in the morning, we are not always able to speak to everyone and if this is the case, please leave a message on the answer phone.
When telephoning the school, please state clearly your child's name, tutor group, the reason for absence and the expected date of return. Follow up with a note on the day of return.
We know that sometimes children cannot come to school because they are really unwell – and that’s the right thing to do for them and other students. However, medical advice is clear that children with a mild illness will often be well enough to attend – for example, if they have a cough or cold without a temperature. The NHS guidance: Is my child too ill for school? – NHS is designed to support parents/carers in their decision-making about mild illness.
What the school will do if your child is absent
If we have not heard from you, we will contact you on the first day of absence. The Attendance section in the Student First, Anti-Bullying & Attendance Leaflet includes useful information about what you need to do if your child is unwell or has an appointment.
Please refer to the relevant section by clicking on the button below.
Appointments in Advance
If you are letting us know about an appointment in advance, please email the Attendance Team at attendance@buckinghamschool.org with evidence of the appointment.
Unauthorised Absences
The Law states that a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN, or fine) may be issued for any unauthorised absences for 10 or more sessions (a session being a morning or an afternoon) within a 10-week period. This is not restricted to holidays in term time and could be cumulative within that period – for example, a student who is regularly absent for one day a week.