Llythyr Presenoldeb Medi 2026 Attendance letter Sept 2026
Dear Parents and Carers,
New School Year – Working Together to Support Attendance and Learning
As we start the new academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to emphasise the importance of regular school attendance and to share important information regarding attendance expectations within Denbighshire County Council.
Evidence continues to demonstrate a significant correlation between absence during the early weeks of the school year and persistent absence later in the academic year.
In addition to its impact on academic achievement, regular attendance plays a crucial role in supporting pupils' social and emotional development. The beginning of the academic year is a particularly important period during which friendship groups are established, classroom relationships are developed, and pupils become familiar with new routines and expectations. Absence during these formative weeks can result in pupils missing valuable opportunities to strengthen social connections and integrate fully into school life. Such disruption may affect confidence, engagement, and a pupil's overall sense of belonging, potentially creating barriers to both learning and wellbeing.
Regular attendance is essential in ensuring that pupils achieve their full potential. Every day of learning is valuable, and even short periods of absence can result in missed learning opportunities that may be difficult to recover. In addition to affecting academic progress, absence can also impact a child's social development, wellbeing, and engagement with school life. Consequently, all schools across Denbighshire are committed to working in partnership with parents and carers to promote and maintain high levels of attendance.
Denbighshire County Council remains committed to addressing unauthorised absence, including holidays taken during term time without prior authorisation. Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) will be issued, where appropriate, to ensure compliance with parental responsibilities under attendance legislation. Requests for absence during term time will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances, with each application considered on its individual merits by the Headteacher.
Whilst we recognise the importance of family time, absence during term time can have a detrimental effect on a pupil's educational progress and attainment.
We respectfully request that parents and carers take school attendance into careful consideration when arranging holidays and other commitments. Please consult the published school term dates and seek advice from the school before submitting any request for leave of absence during term time.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation. By working together, we can ensure that every child benefits from a positive and successful start to the academic year.
Yours sincerely,
G.W.Davies
Geraint Davies
Pennaeth Addysg / Head of Education