Leave of Absence During Term Time
Supporting Student Opportunities Beyond School
At Wolgarston High School, we are proud of the many ways our students represent teams, organisations, and take part in important events outside of school. These opportunities can be incredibly valuable, helping students develop confidence, skills, and experiences beyond the classroom.
At the same time, regular attendance at school is a legal requirement and plays a vital role in students’ academic progress and wellbeing. For this reason, any request for absence during term time must be carefully considered.
Department for Education Guidance
The Department for Education (DfE) states that headteachers may only authorise leave of absence in term time in exceptional circumstances. Each request is considered individually, taking into account the specific situation.
It’s important to note that there is no automatic entitlement to time off for sporting or other events, even where these are significant achievements.
Keeping Students Safe
As outlined in Keeping Children Safe in Education, we have a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of all students. Before agreeing to any absence, we must be confident that:
- Students will be safe and appropriately supervised
- Suitable adults are responsible for their care
- Clear communication and contact arrangements are in place
These checks are an important part of ensuring every student remains safe while away from school.
Attendance and Recording
If a request is approved, the absence will be recorded using the appropriate authorised attendance code.
Where requests do not meet the required criteria, or where sufficient information is not provided, the absence will be recorded as unauthorised. This may lead to further action in line with Local Authority guidance.
Our Approach
We are committed to supporting our students in their wider achievements and celebrating their successes. However, we must balance this with our responsibilities around attendance, safeguarding, and learning.
Absence will only be authorised where:
- Full and clear information is provided
- Safeguarding arrangements are appropriate
- The circumstances are considered exceptional
Notice Period
To allow time for careful consideration and safeguarding checks, we ask that all requests are submitted at least two weeks in advance.
Requests made with less notice may not be authorised.
How to Apply
If you wish to request leave for your child, please complete the request form in full (see attachment below) and provide supporting evidence, such as:
- An official letter on headed paper, or
- An email from the organising body
Unfortunately, incomplete applications cannot be considered.