It can be a difficult call for parents. Following the NHS and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) guidance, here is a quick "Ready for School" checklist:

• Minor Ailments: Children with mild coughs, a simple cold, or a minor headache can and should attend school.

• Fever: If your child has a fever (a temperature over 38°C), they should stay home until the fever subsides.

• Infection: For common infections like Impetigo or Chickenpox, please follow the specific "exclusion periods" found in our guide below.

• The 48-Hour Rule: If your child has vomited or has diarrhoea, they must remain home for 48 hours after the last episode to prevent the spread of infection.

If your child is genuinely too unwell to attend, you must:

1. Call by 9:00 AM: Contact the school office on 01606 288060.

2. Provide a Specific Reason: Avoid saying "unwell"; please specify the symptoms (e.g., "high fever").

3. Daily Updates: Please call on each subsequent day of absence unless a fixed period has been agreed.

In line with the National Framework for Penalty Notices, we cannot authorize term-time holidays.

• The Law: Parents have a legal duty to ensure their children attend school regularly.

• Penalty Notices: The DfE has standardized fines across England. If a child is absent for 5 days or more for an unauthorized holiday, a Penalty Notice may be issued.

• Requesting Leave: Only "Exceptional Circumstances" will be considered. Please submit a request form at least two weeks in advance.  The list of Exceptional Circumstances can be found in the school's Attendance Policy.

• Holidays are not considered Exceptional Circumstances for any reason.