Attendance & Punctuality

Students are expected on site at 8.35am every day and to attend all their timetabled lessons including PHSE and Guided Learning. 

Students’ attendance is monitored in the same way as students in the main school and 97% attendance is the target for all students. 

Sixth form students are subject to the terms and conditions of the main school attendance policy and there is a staged approach of intervention should students’ attendance fall below 97% as attendance at school is clearly linked to academic success. 

We recognise that students in the Sixth Form will inevitably need time away from school for interviews, open days etc. These absences will be approved when confirmed by parent(s).  Most universities offer open days at the weekends and during holidays so students should try their best to minimise time out of school.  Routine medical appointments should be also made outside of lesson time if possible. 

We also understand that students will want to find a part-time job during their time in Sixth Form. This is perfectly understandable, but their job should not impinge in any way on their studies. Frequent late-night shifts should be avoided and shifts during the school day are not allowed. 

Furthermore, many students will choose to begin driving lessons after their 17th birthday and although we understand that driving instructors are in high demand, we cannot authorise absences from school or lessons due to driving lessons. They should be booked outside of school hours. 

Poor attendance at school vastly diminishes students’ chances of fulfilling their potential and, in turn, their life chances. 

Please remember that the key reason for focusing on attendance and punctuality is to support your son/daughter to achieve their best in the Sixth Form.  We cannot teach and support them if they are not with us.  We understand that some absence may be unavoidable but securing good patterns of attendance is vital for success in the Sixth Form and in the future.