Requests for leave of absence are not generally granted. If there are very exceptional circumstances where parents/carers must request a leave of absence, they must do so by completing an Application for Student Leave Form (please see below) and writing to the Headteacher, including relevant evidence e.g. medical certificate, letter from employers etc. It is expected that requests will be made at least two weeks in advance. Parents/carers should obtain an Application for Student Leave Form from reception or from the school website (please see below). On receipt of the completed form, the Headteacher, in consultation with the School’s Attendance Officer, will decide whether to authorise or not, and will write to parents/carers. Each request will be considered individually.

If the request is granted, the expected date of the student’s return will be included in the letter. It is unlikely a leave of absence will be granted for the purposes of a family holiday, trip or extended period of leave. If a student is absent during this period, it will be recorded as unauthorised and the following action will be taken:

• Parents/carers will receive a letter from the Headteacher;
• Parents/carers will be asked to attend a meeting or attendance clinic in school;
• The matter will be referred to the Attendance Service at Cognus for consideration for a Penalty Notice.

Please send all requests to attendance@wallingtongirls.org.uk.