A Shared Priority

The Government, Hertfordshire County Council and Gaddesden Row JMI School all view school attendance as a high priority. We ask that you work with us to ensure your child attends every day, on time, and ready to learn. 

We believe that every day in school counts. Regular attendance and punctuality are vital to ensure children reach their full potential — both academically and socially. Missing a few days of school here and there or being 10 minutes late each day may not seem a big deal but research shows that it can have a significant impact on your child’s learning. It is a fact that children who miss school fall behind their peers and struggle to catch up. Most of the work they miss is never made up, which can not only lead to big gaps in their learning but also have a big impact on their future options and opportunities.

We also know that friendships can be affected by persistent absence: it can be hard for a child who misses lots of school to for relationships with their classmates.

In particular, we need to stress how important it is that you don't take holidays in term time as it disrupts your child's learning. In keeping with the Local Authority directive, we will not authorise term -time absence unless you can evidence exceptional circumstances.

Together, we can give your child the very best chance to succeed — now and in the future.

If you are experiencing difficulties that may affect your child’s attendance or punctuality, please contact us. We are here to support you.

Fixed Term Penalty Notices (FPNs)

In line with government legislation and Hertfordshire County Council guidance, Fixed Term Penalty Notices may be issued where there are 10 sessions (equivalent to 5 school days) of unauthorised absence within a 10-week period.

• Only the Headteacher may authorise absence in exceptional circumstances.
• Holidays during term time, days out, or absences without valid reason will not be authorised.
• If 10 or more unauthorised sessions occur within a 10-week period, the Local Authority may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice of:
  • £80 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days.
  • £160 per parent, per child if paid between 22–28 days.
  • Non-payment may result in prosecution.
  • Further periods of unauthorised absence may lead to further action.