To be completed at least 1 month before the absence.

The Department for Education has advised schools to only authorise leave of absence in ‘exceptional’ circumstances, hence School will not approve any absence in term time, except in such circumstances. The Headteacher will determine whether the reason given for requesting leave of absence is exceptional or not. Please also note that there is no automatic right to take holidays in term time nor will your child/ren’s overall attendance affect the Headteacher’s decision.

Please complete the section below and return to school at least one month before the requested absence. School will endeavour to respond to your request within 5 working days. If your request for leave of absence is approved, you will be expected to collect and complete all work your child has missed. Please note that taking your child away during the school term is detrimental to their educational progress. Please see the Penalty Notice Code of Conduct on our school website under ‘policies’.

If leave of absence is taken without approval, this information will be passed to the attendance team at West Berkshire Council and a Penalty Notice may be issued without further warning. For the first offence, the payment of a Penalty Notice is £160 but will be reduced to £80 if paid within 21 days. For the second offence, the fine will be £160 flat rate. For the third offence there is no option of a Penalty Notice, and the matter will be considered for prosecution. Penalty Notices will be issued per parent / carer per child. Further details are available on the West Berkshire Council website or from the Education Attendance Team. If the fine is not paid by the 28-day deadline, the matter will be taken to court.