Attendance

The law requires parents and carers to make sure their children receive a full-time education suitable to their age, ability and any special educational needs, further details can be found on the Derbyshire County Council website.  As a school, we work hard to support families to ensure that all children attend school regularly. Our latest attendance policy can be found on the link below:

Attendance Policy - December 2024

Attendance concerns workflow - 2024

The School Day

Children should arrive at school no earlier than 8.45 am.  The school day starts at 9:00am and finishes at 3.30 pm. The typical school week lasts for 32.5 hours.

Parents are asked to wait for their children at the agreed location and in the interests of health and safety, we ask you not to park your car on zigzags and double yellow lines or in a place that may block access for emergency vehicles.

Late arrival

If your child arrives late, they must be signed in the 'late book' which is situated in Reception. If you collect your child or they arrive from an appointment, this also needs to be recorded here.

If your child is ill or has an early appointment, please telephone school to inform us before 9.00 am - this will save a lot of administration time.  
You may also email school - sreception@harpurhill.derbyshire.sch.uk

Or text on 07786 207779

Can I take my child on holiday during school time? 

Parents requiring leave of absence in exceptional circumstances for their child should apply to the Headteacher who will consider the reasons before deciding on whether the absence will be authorised or not.

Parents who take their children on holiday without permission will incur unauthorised absences for their child. These remain on the child’s record and may be monitored for further action. Parents will be referred to the Local Authority for a fixed penalty notice and / or court action for unauthorised leave or holidays. 

Exceptional leave request form  

Absence from School 

The Department for Education expects all schools to promote good attendance and reduce absences, including persistent absence. This is because we know that missing out on lessons leaves children vulnerable to falling behind and making slower progress. Children with poor attendance tend to achieve less in both primary and secondary schools (see poster below).

'Good Attendance Means' (DCC Poster)

Advice leaflet for parents (Aug 24).pdf