We strongly believe that every school day counts.  In line with the latest DfE "Working together to improve school attendance" guidance, we expect every child to attend school every day the school is open, unless there is a genuine, unavoidable reason. As a Rights Respecting School, we know that every child has the right to an education. Parents are responsible for enabling their child’s access to education, to attend school, learn and succeed.  This is in the best interest of every child.  Attending regularly ensures your child has the best access to learning, peer relationships, and wider school opportunities.

            At St Matthew's, our expectation is "Every Child, Every Day"                                        - to arrive on time, ready to learn. 

Why Punctuality Matters:
Arriving on time is crucial for a positive start to your child's day. It allows children to settle in with their friends, hear important morning notices, and begin their first lessons without disruption.

• School Gates Open: 8:40 AM
• School Gates Close: 8:50 AM
• Morning Registration: 8:50 AM
• Late Arrivals: Children arriving after the gates close must report to the school office and will be marked as late, which impacts their overall attendance record.

Reporting an Absence:
If your child is too ill to attend, please notify the school office as early as possible on the first day of absence. Our dedicated Attendance Lead is our Office Manager, Mrs Michael.  If you need support, advice, or have questions about your child's attendance, please contact the school office via 020 8804 1666 or office@st-matthews.enfield.sch.uk

Please note that any leave in term-time must always be requested in writing to the Headteacher in advance. Please also note the following actions are not permitted: 

•  making an appointment for your child during the school day (unless in a real emergency)
•  taking a family holiday in term-time. (The DfE does not consider this to be an exceptional circumstance)

Requesting a Leave of Absence:

In line with DfE statutory guidance (Working together to improve school attendance, 2024), leave of absence during term time will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. The DfE states that a need or desire for a holiday or leisure absence is not considered an exceptional circumstance.

If you do need to request a leave of absence for an exceptional circumstance, you must complete the Leave of Absence form below and return it to the office as soon as possible, to be considered by the Headteacher.      Please note that completion of this form does not guarantee absence will be granted. Completion of this from after the absence will result in an unauthorised absence.

For a detailed breakdown of our protocols, absence procedures, and legal frameworks, please review our full School Attendance Policy below.