Student Attendance
At Rivington and Blackrod High School, we believe that excellent attendance and punctuality are important to every student’s success. Attending school regularly helps students make academic progress, build positive relationships and take advantage of opportunities both in and beyond the classroom.
We work closely with parents and carers to promote good attendance and offer support when it is needed. Together, we can help students develop positive attendance habits that will benefit them throughout their education and beyond.
Attendance Matters
Every lesson counts. Students who attend school regularly have more opportunities to build on their learning, enjoy school life and prepare for their next steps.
If your child is finding it difficult to attend school, please get in touch. We will work with you to understand any barriers and discuss the support available.
Reporting an Absence
All student absences must be reported through the MyChildAtSchool (MCAS) website or app. If your child is unable to attend school, please report their absence as soon as possible on the first day and provide the reason.
Log in to MCAS to report an absence
If you need help accessing MCAS, email bromcomsupport@rbhs.co.uk. If you cannot access MCAS when you need to report an absence, call 01204 333266 and select “Report a Student Absence” from the phone menu.
Where possible, please arrange routine medical, dental and other appointments outside the school day. If an appointment during school hours is unavoidable, please notify the school in advance and provide confirmation of the appointment where possible.
View Your Child’s Attendance
Parents and carers can monitor their child’s attendance through MCAS.
If you have concerns about your child’s attendance, punctuality or wellbeing, please contact their pastoral team. We will work with you to understand what is happening and how we can help.
Term-Time Leave
Holidays should be taken during school holidays. Term-time holidays are not normally authorised.
If you need to request leave during term time because of exceptional circumstances, please contact the school in advance. Each request will be considered individually. Taking your child out of school without authorisation will be recorded as an unauthorised absence and may result in a penalty notice or other legal action.
Attendance Guidance and Support
Support for Families
If wider circumstances are affecting your child’s attendance, additional support may be available:
- Free school meals and help with uniform
- Cost of living support
- Assistance with travel to school
- NHS healthy living advice
- Bolton Families Information Service
If you would like to discuss your child’s attendance, please contact their pastoral team.