Attendance
Regular and punctual attendance at school is essential. Our school’s Attendance and Punctuality policy outlines ‘authorised’ and ‘unauthorised’ absences in accordance with the guidelines set by the Welsh Government.
Attendance matters because every day in school gives children the chance to learn, grow, and feel part of their class community. When pupils attend regularly, they build strong routines, make steady academic progress, and develop the confidence that comes from being fully involved in school life. Good attendance helps children form friendships, take part in enriching experiences, and make the most of the opportunities that shape their future.
Family Holidays
Booking holidays during term time is discouraged. Any holidays that do not meet the strict county guidelines will result in an unauthorised absence.
Promptness and Lateness
The school gates open at 8:50am and close at 9:00am. Registers are open at 9:00am and close at 09:30am. If your child has not arrived in their class by 9:15am am you will be notified by phone or text message using our school messaging system Teachers2Parents, requesting you to provide a reason for the absence.
Any children arriving at school after 9am will need to enter school via the school office.
Attendance Monitoring
Attendance and punctuality of pupils are monitored regularly by the deputy head. Should there be any concerns, we will arrange a meeting with you directly to offer support.
Attendance is also regularly reviewed by Conwy’s Education Social Worker, who offers additional support to families in need.
Illness and Medical Appointments
In case of your child’s illness or necessary medical appointments, please inform us by sending a note to their class teacher or by contacting the school office via text or phone. This ensures accurate attendance records and helps maintain the safety of your child. If you are attending medical appointments you may be requested to share copies of paperwork to support your child’s absence. Where possible, we request that routine appointments are made outside of the school day.
Should a pupil fall ill during the school day, we will contact you to arrange for their collection.
In the event of an accident at school, and if parents cannot be reached, the pupil will be taken to the hospital by car or ambulance, accompanied by two members of staff.
Attendance Codes
There are a variety of codes which we use in order to record your child’s attendance. The main ones are:
/ – present
L – late (before registers close)
U – Late (after registers close)
N – no reason provided for absence yet
C – other authorised circumstances
M – medical/dental appointments
I – illness
P – approved sporting activity
R – religious observance
V – Educational visit or trip (school trips)
O – unauthorised absence
The use of these codes enables us to ensure we can track attendance and absences and identify any patterns or support that may be needed. It is imperative that you inform school of the reason for your child’s absence, as any non-contact will result in O codes (unauthorised absences).
Attendance Information for Ysgol Deganwy
A Snapshot of Our Attendance Policy
Attendance for Last Academic Year (2024-25)
