Princes Risborough School

Reporting an Absence (Illness)

• When to contact us: On the morning of the first day of absence. (Please aim to notify us before 8:30 am to help our teams prepare for morning registration).

• What we need: The specific reason for the illness and an expected return date.

• Multi-day absences: If a return date is not confirmed on day one, you must contact us each day your child is absent.

• Unreported absences: If you do not contact us, our Attendance Officer will make a follow-up welfare call to you before 11:00 am.

Attendance Contact Details:

Email: studentabsence@prsbucks.com
Telephone:   01844 345496 (option 1) - please leave a voicemail which is picked up by the Attendance Team. 

Note on the Arbor App: While the trust policy notes that absences can be logged via Arbor, our school is currently finalising this setup. Please use the phone or email options above until further notice

Returning to School & Medical Evidence

• Written Note Required: On the day your child returns, you must provide written confirmation of the reason for absence (via email or a paper note to the form tutor).

• Medical Evidence: Not required for standard short-term illnesses. For frequent or prolonged absences, the school may request evidence (appointment cards, prescriptions, or NHS App screenshots) to implement appropriate support plans. Formal doctor's letters are not mandatory.

Medical & Dental Appointments

• Please book all routine appointments outside of school hours whenever reasonably possible.

• If a term-time appointment is unavoidable, students must attend school before the appointment and/or return immediately afterwards.

• Always notify and coordinate timings with your school’s Attendance Officer in advance.

Term-Time Leave of Absence (Holidays)

• No Holidays: In line with government rules, the trust cannot authorise term-time leave for holidays or leisure. Leave is only granted under highly exceptional circumstances.

• How to Apply: Submit requests in writing to the Attendance Officer at least 4 school weeks in advance. The Head of School's decision is final.

• Fines: Unauthorised leave may result in a Local Authority penalty notice. Statutory national fines are £80 per parent if paid within 21 days, rising to £160 if paid within 28 days.

  • Application for leave of absence

Attendance at PRS

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