At Marine Park we believe that every day is valuable and every day is an opportunity to learn something new.  This is why we place such importance on children attending well throughout the year.

Over recent years our attendance figures have steadily improved because our children love coming to school to take part in the engaging lessons and activities that take place every day.

We celebrate the success of our great attenders in a special termly assembly where parents are invited to see their children receive certificates, badges and prizes. It is always a fantastic morning!

Did you know?

  • Low attendance means a lower chance of getting into further education and employment
  • Good attendance means higher grades and better chances in life
  • Missing the odd day can become a habit
  • Every lesson in school matters and if you have time off you may find it difficult to catch up
  • Absences for medical appointments should be requested as far in advance as possible and parents/carers should try to make routine appointments (for example dental check ups) during school holidays or after school hours
  • School is a great place to have fun and make new friends and it can give you improved confidence
  • There is a strong link between non-attendance and street crime and/or substance abuse
  • Attending school improves your health!  It encourages good social skills and the ability to create friendships and will also help you physically through regular exercise
  • Lateness equals lost learning
  • Five minutes every day adds up to over three days lost each year

Local Authority Fixed Penalty Notice

These are used in a range of situations where unauthorised absence from school occurs.

Penalty notices for unauthorised absences after 19 August 2024

From 19 August 2024, a maximum of two penalty notices will be allowed within a 3 year period. This begins from the date of the first penalty notice.

Penalty notices may be issued to each parent / carer for each child who has 10 unauthorised sessions of absence (equal to 5 school days) in a 10 week period. 

For example, 3 children have 10 unauthorised absences over a 10 week period – this may result in each parent / carer being issued with 3 separate penalty notices.

First offence

Penalty notice one will mean a £160 fine if paid within 28 days of issue. This is discounted to £80 if paid within 21 days of issue.If you don’t pay the penalty notice within 28 days you may be prosecuted in the Magistrates Court.

Second offence

Penalty notice two will mean a fine of £160 if paid within 28 days of issue. If you don’t pay the penalty notice within 28 days you may be prosecuted in the Magistrates Court.

Third offence

If a third offence is committed within a 3 year period you may be prosecuted at the Magistrates Court. Prosecution can result in a criminal record and fines of up to £2,500. This can show up on your DBS certificate.

For more information, see the Code of conduct for education related penalty notices.