A parent of a child of compulsory school age is obliged to ensure that their child attends school on every school day for the educational program in which he/she is enrolled. A parent of a young person in the compulsory participation phase is obliged to ensure that the young person is participating full-time in an eligible option.
Parents/Carers Responsibility:
- ensure their child of compulsory school age attends school on every school day for the educational program in which the child is enrolled, unless the parent has a reasonable excuse
- ensure their child in the compulsory participation phase fulfils the requirements of their eligible option
- advise school, preferably in writing, of the reason for any absences, if not beforehand then within 2 days of the student's return to school
- initiate or attend meetings to discuss their child's attendance or participation in their educational program
- negotiate with the school, where appropriate, alterations to their child's educational program or flexible arrangements to best meet the needs of the child
- apply for an exemption for their child for non-attendance at school for a stated or indefinite period where the child's attendance at school is impossible or should not be reasonably required
- are not to employ their child, or allow the child to be employed during the time the child is required to attend a State or Non-State school, unless the parent provides a satisfactory reason. This prohibition includes any calling carried on by the parent of the child by way of trade or gain. However, this does not include any employment under an approved flexible arrangement or under a recognised apprenticeship or traineeship.
Reasons for Absence
Satisfactory reasons for an absence may include such factors as: - medical or dental treatments or procedures
- specialised training
- sporting events other than those associated with the school or the education system
- funerals
- cultural reasons, or
- family reasons (e.g. special family events, holidays)
Procedures for Absence Notification
- If a student is going to be away ill that they phone the school absence number ph 4160 3360 and leave a message that their child will be away.
- A written note must accompany the student when they next come to school explaining their absence
- Prior notification of absence in writing is essential
Leaving the School Grounds
- No Children will be allowed to leave the school grounds for the purposes of purchasing lunch during the school day.
- If a child is attending an appointment during the school day it is the responsibility of the parent / caregiver to
- Come to the office to collect the child (no child will be allowed to wait outside the school grounds)
- Sign the register at the office to indicate they have taken their child and left the school grounds