Attendance at Rushey Mead Academy

Although we are an academy, we are required as a state-maintained school to follow the statutory attendance guidance from the Department for Education. More information for parents can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/school-attendance-absence

Leicester City Council (the Local Authority) is the legal body that monitors our school in relation to the above and helps to ensure that all children attend school regularly. This means that they will continue to issue Penalty Notices (fines) and chair legal meetings where necessary.

Why is regular school attendance important?

Consistent and punctual attendance is both a legal requirement and crucial for your child’s success. Regular attendance ensures that students can make the most of the opportunities available to them.

Is the school expecting every student to achieve 100% attendance?

While we understand that genuine reasons for absence will arise, and not every student will achieve 100% attendance, we encourage all students to attend school as often as possible.

What if my child is ill?

You will need to contact the school office each morning so we can update our registers. We will ask for a reason for absence for our records. Longer periods of illness absence (over 3 days) can only be authorised if medical evidence is shown to the school office. If you have received a medical evidence letter as your child’s attendance is below 96% due to illness, then any future absences that may occur can only be authorised when medical evidence has been provided. Medical evidence can be things such as named prescriptions or medication, appointment cards or notes from the doctor.

What if my child has a medical condition that may affect their attendance?

You should contact the office and make an appointment to speak to the year team, so we are aware of your child’s needs. When there are exceptional circumstances such as this we often take a different approach to managing attendance in school, according to the child’s needs.

 

Can I take my child out of school during term time?

Schools are not allowed to authorise holiday requests. You must still complete an exceptional leave request form for all planned absences. We are required to know the whereabouts of your child during term-time for safeguarding purposes.

Will I receive a penalty notice (fine)?

We may submit a penalty notice request to Leicester City Council for an unauthorised absence. A guide for parents in Leicester City Council can be downloaded from the council website: https://www.leicester.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/school-and-colleges/attendance-behaviour-and-welfare/attendance-and-truancy/

If the school have concerns about your child’s attendance?

If we are concerned about your child’s attendance, we will send you a letter outlining their attendance record, including any late marks. These letters are usually sent at the end of each term.

If there is no improvement after receiving this letter, we may refer the case to our Education Welfare Officer (EWO) at Leicester City Council. The EWO will help us identify the next steps, which may include inviting you to a legal meeting (a panel meeting). During this meeting, we will discuss our concerns, listen to your views, and work together to create a parenting contract to improve attendance.

If the situation does not improve, we will continue to work with the Education Welfare Service and may take further action, including a PACE meeting (Police and Criminal Investigations), and, if necessary, issue a penalty notice or pursue legal action.

Please take time to read the following documents and policies: –

Pharmacy First: Helping to Keep Children in School

At Rushey Mead Academy we know how important regular attendance is for your child’s learning and development. However, minor illnesses can sometimes lead to unnecessary absences. That’s where Pharmacy First can help!

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows local pharmacists to provide expert advice and treatment for common illnesses—without the need for a GP appointment. This means your child can get the care they need quickly and return to school sooner.

How Can Pharmacy First Help?

✅ Faster Treatment – No need to wait for a GP appointment; visit a participating pharmacy instead.

✅ Common Illnesses Covered – Pharmacists can help with sore throats, ear infections, insect bites, impetigo, and more.

✅ Convenient Locations & Hours – Many pharmacies are open late and on weekends, making it easier for parents.

✅ Less Time Off School – Faster care means children recover quicker and miss fewer days of learning.

 

Supporting School Attendance

By using Pharmacy First, you can help ensure your child gets the care they need without unnecessary absences. Pharmacies offer expert support and advice, meaning minor illnesses don’t have to disrupt their education.

📍 Find your nearest participating pharmacy by visiting the NHS website or asking at your local pharmacy.

Together, we can keep our children healthy, happy, and in school!