Ridgewood School is committed to maximising educational opportunities and achievement for all students. For students to gain the best from their time at Ridgewood School, it is vital that they maintain excellent attendance and punctuality. We strive for a minimum of 97% attendance for all students and we actively promote good attendance and discourage unjustified absence – this ethos prepares students for the disciplines of working life and maximises learning opportunities.

Research has shown that those students with 100% attendance are more likely to secure the best grades at GCSE. Those with no absence are 1.5 times more likely to achieve 5 or more GCSEs at grades 9-4 or equivalent, and are almost three times more likely to achieve 5 or more GCSEs at 9-4 or equivalent including English and Mathematics than students missing 15-20% of lessons.

We want all of our students to aim for 100% attendance and to take every opportunity to be successful and prepare for the road ahead.

The 'attendance thermometer' on this page illustrates just how important it is for students to be in school every day. Thank you for continuing to work with us to ensure that learning time is not lost.

Punctuality to school

It is essential that students arrive ready to start school for an 8.40am start. If students are late to school, they must report to the Attendance Office. If there is no valid reason for being late, students will be issued with a C3 detention. Once students have been issued with a C3 detention, they will complete a 30 minute detention the following school day.

Medical Appointments

A full day’s absence will not be authorised for a medical appointment. Please arrange all appointments outside the school day. If the appointment is unavoidable during the school day, students must come to school before and after the appointment. Evidence for appointments during school time must be provided in advance where possible; if not, a letter or appointment card should be brought in afterwards.