Hartford Infant School is committed to excellent attendance. Parents and carers are responsible for ensuring children arrive on time each day.
Research shows a strong link between attendance and achievement, and that poor attendance can negatively affect a child’s progress and future opportunities. The school works closely with the county’s Education Welfare Officer (EWO), who monitors every child’s attendance.
If attendance drops below 95%, or if there is repeated lateness, parents will receive a letter explaining the need for improvement due to the impact on learning.
Our whole‑school target is 97% attendance or above for every pupil.
We understand that children may occasionally be unable to attend school.
If your child is absent due to illness, please contact the school each day of the absence, explaining the reason:
- Phone: 01480 398046
- Email: office@hartfordinfantschool.org
If your child has had sickness or diarrhoea, they must remain off school for 48 hours after the last episode.
The Department for Education states that schools may only authorise planned term‑time absence in extremely exceptional circumstances, such as:
- A funeral of a close relative
- A medical appointment
The following cannot be authorised:
- Term‑time holidays
- Shopping during school hours
- Caring for siblings
- Late arrival
Term‑time holidays will only be authorised in rare, exceptional cases, such as a final opportunity to spend time with a seriously ill close relative or a unique, one‑off experience. A holiday request form must be completed via the school office.
If leave is not authorised and a child is taken out of school, the absence will be recorded as unauthorised, and parents may receive a penalty notice.
Penalty notices are issued in line with the County Council’s code of conduct.
- £60 per parent per child if paid within 21 days
- £120 per parent per child if paid between 21–28 days
If the fine is not paid, parents may be prosecuted in the Magistrates’ Court, where penalties can include:
- A fine of up to £2,500
- Up to three months in prison
For this reason, please ensure all family holidays are arranged during school holiday periods. Term dates are available on the school website.
Yes. Parents have a legal duty to ensure regular attendance. If a holiday is unauthorised, a Penalty Notice may be issued by the school or the Local Authority.
No. Only the Local Authority can make this decision. Schools must refer cases of regular absence—authorised or unauthorised—to the Local Authority, including evidence of support provided to the family.
The Cam Academy Trust employs an Education Welfare Officer. The school and EWO work with families at an early stage to resolve attendance concerns, which is usually successful. However, the EWO also has a legal role and may issue Penalty Notices or pursue prosecution if attendance does not improve. The EWO can be contacted via the school reception.