Attendance at Bracken Hill School

At Bracken Hill School, we believe that regular attendance is an important part of every pupil's education, wellbeing and safeguarding. Good attendance helps pupils to build positive relationships, establish routines and access the full range of learning and support available to them. Attendance is recognised as a key protective factor in keeping children safe and helping them to achieve their full potential. 

We understand that many of our pupils have complex needs, medical conditions, anxiety, or other circumstances which can affect attendance. Our approach is therefore supportive, compassionate and individualised. We work closely with families to understand any barriers to attendance and to identify practical solutions that will help pupils engage successfully with school. 

Parents and carers should notify the school before 9:00am on the first day of any absence, either by telephone on 01623 477268 or via the Seesaw app.

Attendance is monitored regularly for all pupils. Where attendance begins to cause concern, we will make early contact with families to discuss the situation and offer support. This may include conversations with your child's class teacher, support from our Family Support Worker, meetings with our Attendance Lead, Kate Austin, or referrals to external services where appropriate. Our focus is always on working in partnership with families to address challenges before they become a significant barrier to attendance. 

Whilst we recognise that some pupils may require reasonable adjustments due to SEND, medical needs or exceptional circumstances, we encourage all pupils to attend as regularly as possible. Attendance below 90% is monitored closely and families may be invited to meet with school staff to discuss attendance and agree supportive actions.

We recognise that attendance difficulties can sometimes be linked to wider wellbeing, emotional, mental health or safeguarding concerns. Where this is the case, our team will work collaboratively with families and relevant professionals to ensure pupils receive the help and support they need. 

If you have concerns about your child's attendance, we encourage you to speak with your child's class teacher in the first instance or contact our Attendance Lead, Kate Austin, via office@brackenhill.notts.sch.uk. Early conversations often help us identify the most effective support and prevent difficulties from escalating. 

For further information, please read our Attendance Policy September 2026.