Attendance
We are an inclusive school for children between the ages of 4 and 11 years old and welcome all children into our school community.
We usually have the capacity to admit children at any stage in the school year should they move into our local area but some year groups are sometimes full.
For any child starting at Pannal School we aim to ensure a smooth and welcoming transition. We will make every effort to get to know your child quickly both in terms of their academic abilities and their personal qualities.
All children who will reach their fifth birthday within the academic year are admitted to school at the start of September. Parents should note that children are not legally required to attend school until the first day of the term in which they have their 5th birthday. Any parents wishing to take up this option are invited to discuss their thoughts with Mrs Turner.
We have a system in place, which allows us to gather a range of information about reception-aged children before they start school. This system consist of a number of meetings and visits
- In May after the admissions list has been distributed by the Local Authority parents are invited to an open meeting where Mrs Turner, (the Headteacher) and the class teacher talk generally about aspects of school life and give you an insight into the school day.
- Finally in July the children will be invited to visit school for 3 visits so that they can experience school before starting in September.
- In June the class teacher will visit your child’s nursery or playgroup so that children will be familiar with them.
All admissions are processed through the Harrogate Area Education Office. Admission forms are available either on their website www.northyorks.gov.uk or from the school.
You are most welcome to visit school if you are considering applying for a place for your child. Appointments can be made with Mrs Turner by ringing the school.
Absences
Holidays:
Since September 2013 no parent/carer can demand leave of absence for the purposes of a holiday.
Taking a holiday during term time means that children miss important school time.
Absence may be requested for leave in exceptional circumstances. Before completing a request for absence parents/carers are asked to consider the effect on their child's education.
All requests must be made on the Leave of Absence form which can be downloaded here or is available in the lobby
The form must be completed by the parent/carer and sent to the school as far in advance as possible and at least 7 days before the first date of absence. Parents/carers must obtain the school's permission for any leave in term time. If leave is taken without permission it will be recorded as unauthorised and reported to the LA who may choose to impose a fine.
Lateness:
The expectation is that children will arrive on time. Children experience emotional and academic difficulties if they arrive after their class has started work. It is good training for life to arrive on time.
Medical:
Where possible all appointments should be made for out of school hours. Where this is not possible appointments should be made at the beginning or end of the school day. Children should either be returned to school after their appointment or picked up from school. A dentist/doctors appointment etc does not require a whole or half day off school.
Sickness:
Inevitably your child may catch a cold or sickness bug, or whatever seasonal virus is around. You need to balance attendance with the individual health issues of your child. It is important that you ring and inform the school on the first day of absence and return your child as soon as they are well enough.