At Wellfield Infant & Nursery School, we believe that good attendance is essential for every child’s learning, progress and wellbeing. Each day in school provides valuable opportunities for children to develop academically, socially and emotionally, and to build the secure routines that support long‑term success. Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time, and the school has a duty to monitor attendance and work with families where concerns arise. By working together, we can make sure every child benefits from the full range of experiences, teaching and support that daily attendance provides.

Understanding Authorised and Unauthorised Absence

As part of our continued work to support strong, regular attendance, I wanted to share some clear information about how schools must record absence, and how decisions are made regarding whether an absence can be authorised.

We know that families sometimes face difficult circumstances, and we are always here to listen and work with you. At the same time, all schools must follow the national statutory guidance set by the Department for Education (DfE), which outlines the rules for authorised and unauthorised absence. These expectations are also reinforced by Trafford Council.

What counts as an authorised absence?

Under DfE rules, an absence may only be authorised when:

• A child is too unwell to attend school
• Medical evidence is provided if requested
• Parents have requested leave in advance, and the Headteacher agrees that the reason is exceptional
• A child is attending an approved educational activity, such as a school visit or sporting event

Exceptional circumstances are rare, and the DfE makes clear that holidays or trips for leisure are not considered exceptional under any circumstances.

What counts as an unauthorised absence?

Absences must be recorded as unauthorised when:

• No reason is provided.
• The reason falls outside the circumstances in which schools are permitted to authorise absence.
• The evidence provided is insufficient for the absence to be authorised.
• A family takes a holiday during term time without permission, or requests a holiday that cannot legally be authorised.
• A pupil arrives after the register has closed.

These rules are the same for every school in England and are not decided locally.

Exceptional events – important clarification

We recognise that occasionally a family may request absence for a truly exceptional, one‑off event — for example, a significant family celebration or religious observance. In such cases, after considering the request, the date of the specific event may be granted as authorised.

However, any additional days requested either side of the event — including days needed for travel — must be recorded as unauthorised, in line with DfE regulations. Schools are not permitted to extend an authorised absence beyond the exceptional circumstance itself.

Working together

Our priority is always to work in partnership with you. Good attendance is strongly linked to children’s wellbeing, progress and confidence in school, and we want every child to feel secure, settled and successful. If your family is experiencing challenges that make attendance difficult, please contact us so that we can support you as early as possible.