Attendance and punctuality is a vital component of Career and Life readiness and your child’s ability to succeed and reach their full potential whilst studying at UTC. The curriculum has been designed so that students acquire knowledge, information and experience, in classroom or workshop environments and offsite visits. Therefore, having good attendance is vital.
There is also significant academic research which highlights the correlation between the percentage of attendance and achievement of grades.
This is why our aim for all students at UTC South Durham is to achieve 97% and above attendance during each academic year.
Parents have a legal duty to ensure that their child receives full-time education and you will be committing an offence if your child fails to attend regularly and punctually.
REPORTING ABSENCE
If your son/daughter is too ill to attend UTC please contact our Attendance Officer, Julie Bushby, as soon as possible to advise the reason for absence. We ask that you contact UTC each day that your child is absent unless you have given a clear indication of how long the absence will last. The direct line for Julie is: 01325 430 266 or alternatively email: julie.bushby@utcsouthdurham.org
APPOINTMENTS
Routine appointments, including medical or dental, should be made outside of school/college hours. If this is not possible, we require a notification in advance. Please phone/email Julie Bushby ensuring that you provide evidence of appointments.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE
Following a change in the law concerning term time leave of absence, from 1st September 2013, Principals are NOT able to grant any leave of absence during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances. If you wish to make an application for your child's term time leave you must complete an application form which can be requested from the UTC reception. Following the submission of your application, you will be notified as soon as possible of the schools’ decision.
For more attendance information please contact Julie Bushby, or check our attendance policy and associated documents on the link below: