Role of Parent / Carer
Parents have a legal duty to ensure their child of compulsory school age shall receive efficient full time education suitable to age, ability and aptitude and to any special educational needs they may have, either by regular school attendance or otherwise.
If a child is registered in school, their parent has a legal duty to ensure that they regularly attend that school.
It is a parent’s responsibility to inform the College of the reason for a pupil’s absence on the first day of absence.
This should be confirmed with a written note/email when the pupil returns to school. If the absence is likely to be prolonged, this information should be provided to enable the school to assist with homework or any other necessary arrangements which may be required.
For return to school following an injury where crutches are required or mobility is hindered, an appointment must be made with the College Matron or the Learning Mentor for the particular Key Stage so that a risk assessment can be conducted and support mechanisms put in place.
Pupils are expected to be in school at St Malachy’s College for registration and the beginning of classes. It is the responsibility of parents to ensure their child is punctual.
Lateness is recorded at registration and on each child’s attendance record.
If a child appears reluctant to attend school parents/carers should discuss the matter promptly with the Form Tutor or Head of Year to ensure that both parents/carers and the child receive maximum support.
Role of Pupils
Each pupil at St Malachy’s College School must attend school punctually and regularly. If pupils have been absent from school, a written note/email from a parent/carer must be provided to the Form Tutor on return. Parents/carers may email the tutor using the email address recorded as an official contact on SIMs. Tutors may, on occasion, check with a parent following an email/note.
Leaving School during the day
Students should only leave school during the day for an essential or emergency appointment. In general, appointments should not be made during the school day. A written note/ email from the parent/ carer should be submitted to the relevant Tutor in advance of the appointment with the appointment cards or letter. The student will be issued with a permission card which should be presented at the Office when signing out. A pupil returning after an appointment should sign in on return. In the case of an emergency or unexpected appointment, the parent/ carer should telephone Reception and should pick their son up from Reception. If this is not possible, Reception staff will contact relevant staff to approve arrangements. If a pupil feels unwell during the day, he must seek permission from a teacher to go to the College Matron. She will contact parents/ carers as required. Students must not ring or message home to ask a parent to come for them. If a student is too unwell to remain in school, the College Matron will liaise with parents to make arrangements for going home.
Family holidays during term time
St Malachy’s College discourages holidays during term time due to the impact they have on pupils’ learning. Family holidays taken during term time will be categorised as an unauthorised absence. Only in exceptional circumstances will a holiday be authorised. All requests for such absences should be forwarded to the Principal.