At Jack in the Box, we are committed to ensuring the safety, wellbeing, and consistent development of every child. Regular attendance is vital for children to fully benefit from the experiences we offer. This policy outlines the expectations and procedures surrounding child absence from the setting.

REPORTING AN ABSENCE

If your child is unable to attend nursery on their scheduled day, you must notify us by 10am on the first day of absence and continue to inform us daily for the duration of the absence. You can report absences via:

  • Email
  • Text message
  • Phone call – Please avoid 9am-9.10am 9.30am – 9.40am as we are opening the door.

UNEXPLAINED ABSENCES

Children’s attendance is monitored closely. If we do not receive an explanation for your child’s absence by 10:00am, we will attempt to contact you. If we are unable to reach you within 48 hours and still have no explanation, we may be required to notify Children’s Services, in accordance with the Children Act 2004.

This procedure reflects guidance from the local authority and is in place due to past serious incidents where the absence of a child went unnoticed following a parent’s illness or emergency.

The sole purpose of this policy is to protect the safety and welfare of the child and their family.

Attendance records are regularly monitored. If your child’s absence rate reaches 15% or more, a meeting with the Manager will be arranged to discuss the situation.

Although it is not compulsory for children to attend a preschool, parents do sign registration forms to enter into a contract. Those receiving funding have signed they agree with the funding hours and there is a level of expected attendance. We are audited form time to time and funding can be taken away if not being used.

ARRIVIAL TIMES AND COLLECTIONS

To help prepare children for school and support their routine:

  • Morning registration is at 9:00am and 9.30am
  • Afternoon registration is at 12:00pm

Late arrivals disrupt the class and cause children to miss out on valuable activities such as registration and starting the day with their peers. Children who are late have to try and fit into a class of children already at their play, it’s not easy for them. Please ensure your child arrives promptly for the start of their session.

1st September 2025
Manager sign Jenny
Review September 2026
Jack in the Box Playgroup Limited trading as Jack in the Box Preschool.