Holidays should not be taken in term time as sixth form students’ programmes are demanding and the time available to prepare for examinations and assessments is relatively short.
If students require taking time off college during term time for special circumstances, parents/guardians should write a request to the College directly to the Principal. There may be some exceptions when the Principal will grant permission and authorise the absences but this will never apply to holidays.
At New College Pontefract, we are committed to ensuring that every student achieves their full potential. Consistent attendance plays a vital role in academic success, and as such, we would like to remind parents and carers of the importance of maintaining full attendance during term time.
Taking holidays during term time has a significant and lasting impact on a student’s overall attendance and learning progress. For example:
- If a student takes a two-week holiday, it will take them 18 weeks of 100% attendance to bring their overall attendance back above 90%.
- If they then take a further six days of absence for any reason throughout the academic year, their attendance will not rise above 90% for the remainder of that year.
- Recent studies show that students who have 100% attendance achieve one full grade higher per subject than those with poorer attendance.
- Attendance levels are regularly requested in relation to students’ next steps, for example by apprenticeship providers and employers. In a competitive economic climate this can significantly impact success.
Students attend college for only 65 weeks over the full two-year programme. This means that every single week and every lesson has a greater impact on their success than at any other stage in their education.
Please note that taking holidays during term time along with other unauthorised absences is not permitted and can be classed as gross misconduct under the college’s Student Code of Conduct. Such cases will be addressed through the college’s formal intervention systems. Initial intervention will entail a full-time timetable until staff are satisfied that all missed work is completed.
We strongly urge all parents and carers to avoid booking holidays during term time and to support their young person in maintaining excellent attendance and punctuality. Term dates can be found on the college website.
Your cooperation helps us to provide the best possible educational experience and outcomes for all students.
Thank you for your continued support.
Our Behaviour & Attendance Policy states:
“Holiday during term time is not permitted. All absences due to late arrival from holiday after term breaks and holiday taken during term time will be marked as UA in the register. If a parent or guardian believes that there are extenuating circumstances to support a request for leave during term time, the students’ Progress Tutor should be contacted.”
New College Behaviour & Attendance Policy
