Hartford Junior School is committed to full attendance by all pupils although our target is for all HJS pupils to have an attendance rate of 97% or above. Parents/carers are responsible for ensuring that their children arrive at school on time.
Please note that school starts at 8.50am.
There is clear evidence of the link between attendance and achievement with research showing the showing the negative impact of poor school attendance on a child’s attainment and future prospects. Attendance records are sent on a daily basis to the LA.
We understand there are occasions when your child will be unable to attend.
To report a child’s absence please contact the School on 01480 454695 or email office@hartfordjuniorschool.org Please contact us on each day of absence. If your child has suffered sickness or diarrhoea please keep them off school for 48 hours after the last occurrence.
The Department for Education states that schools may only authorise planned term‑time absence in extremely exceptional circumstances, such as:
- A funeral of a close relative
- A medical appointment
The following cannot be authorised:
- Term‑time holidays
- Shopping during school hours
- Caring for siblings
- Late arrival
Term‑time holidays will only be authorised in rare, exceptional cases, such as a final opportunity to spend time with a seriously ill close relative or a unique, one‑off experience. A holiday request form must be completed via the school office.
If leave is not authorised and a child is taken out of school, the absence will be recorded as unauthorised, and parents may receive a penalty notice.
Penalty notices are issued in line with the County Council’s code of conduct.
- £60 per parent per child if paid within 21 days
- £120 per parent per child if paid between 21–28 days
If the fine is not paid, parents may be prosecuted in the Magistrates’ Court, where penalties can include:
- A fine of up to £2,500
- Up to three months in prison
For this reason, please ensure all family holidays are arranged during school holiday periods. Term dates are available on the school website.
Yes. Parents have a legal duty to ensure regular attendance. If a holiday is unauthorised, a Penalty Notice may be issued by the school or the Local Authority.
No. Only the Local Authority can make this decision. Schools must refer cases of regular absence—authorised or unauthorised—to the Local Authority, including evidence of support provided to the family.
The Cam Academy Trust employs an Education Welfare Officer. The school and EWO work with families at an early stage to resolve attendance concerns, which is usually successful. However, the EWO also has a legal role and may issue Penalty Notices or pursue prosecution if attendance does not improve. The EWO can be contacted via the school reception.