At Oxford Spires we have the highest expectations of student attendance in school.

Establishing strong habits and routines is essential to successful Sixth Form study. We have high expectations that students will come to school every day and on time.

Students should aim for 100% attendance, as those with the best attendance make the most progress and have a much better chance of achieving their potential.

The academy gates open for students to enter from 8.00am and the day starts at 8.30am with registration in form. Students are expected to attend all timetabled lessons and study periods on time to maximise their learning.

Attendance to school, and to each timetabled lesson, is monitored closely.

Whilst we understand there may be some individual circumstances, we ask that students and parents work with us to ensure attendance is a high as possible. If levels of absence become a concern, the Sixth Form Team will follow-up with students and parents / carers. This follow-up will include support to promote full attendance; referrals to outside agencies; or discussions around the completion of courses, exam entries and future study options.

Student expectations

• Students are required to be in the school building throughout the school day, except for organised activities e.g. sporting activities and field trips. 
• Students must register in person with their tutor at 8.30am each day.
• Attendance will also be electronically recorded at every lesson.
• If any lessons are missed an email or phone call will be made to parents/carers to clarify the reason for the absence.
• Students who have been absent must ensure that all missed work is followed up in liaison with subject teachers.
• A central Record of Attendance is kept for every student in the Sixth Form.

Communicating illness or making an absence request

• If a student has a genuine reason for absence, parents/carers must inform the Attendance Officer before 8:30am by BromCom or the My Child At School App or telephone for each day of absence.

• Students may be asked to provide medical evidence in certain circumstances.

• Non-emergency dental/doctor appointments and driving lessons should not be arranged during the school day.

Holidays

• Students must not arrange holidays during term time.
• The Sixth Form follows the principles set out in the school attendance policy .
• It is therefore essential to maintain an excellent attendance record.

University open-day visits

Students are permitted to attend four university open day visits in the Summer term at the end of Year 12 and in the Autumn term of Year 13. Permission must be requested in advance, by a parent/carer, via email info@oxfordspires.anthemtrust.uk