Parents Communications

 Attendance at Baskerville School – Working Together Through Birmingham's ‘Support First’ Approach

 At Baskerville School, we are committed to supporting every child to attend school regularly and benefit fully from their education.

 Our attendance policy is informed by Birmingham City Council's 'Support First' Framework, which places emphasis on understanding barriers to attendance, listening to families, and providing support before considering any formal action. The approach encourages schools and families to work together positively to improve attendance and ensure pupils receive the education they are entitled to.

 We understand that many families face genuine challenges which can affect attendance, including health needs, anxiety, transport difficulties and other personal circumstances. Where concerns arise, our first priority will always be to work with parents/carers to understand these challenges and identify appropriate support.

 It is important for parents/carers to be aware that reduced or part-time timetables can only be used in very limited circumstances and must be formally agreed, reviewed regularly and notified to the Local Authority. Informal arrangements whereby a pupil attends for reduced hours without agreement will not be authorised.

 Similarly, holidays taken during term time without authorisation may result in a Penalty Notice. These fines are issued under Birmingham City Council and national attendance regulations and are not imposed by the school. 

 We remain committed to working constructively with every family to support good attendance, remove barriers where possible, and ensure that every child can achieve their full potential.

 Above all, we want families to know that our aim is to work alongside you. We recognise that every family's circumstances are different and, where attendance difficulties arise, we will always seek to understand, support and find solutions together in the best interests of your child.