24th October 2025
Re: Term-Time Holidays and School Attendance
Dear Parents and Carers,
We were pleased that year 11 and year 13 students achieved outstanding results over the summer, and this was the result of not only their positive attitude to learning but also regular attendance to benefit from quality teaching provided by our expert staff.
At Ballakermeen we focus on attendance every Monday morning during line-ups and our mantra is “Strive for 95” which represents a minimum attendance target. This is because data shows us that consistent attendance is one of the key factors in academic success at school and long-term success in the world of work. When students miss school, even for short periods, it can disrupt their learning, affect their progress, and impact their confidence.
The link between attendance and achievement is clear. In our attendance assemblies delivered to every year group we have highlighted some key numbers. There are 188 school days in a year and a 90% attendance record, means that students are absent for the equivalent of one half-day every week over a year. That’s about 19 school days – nearly 4 weeks or 114 lessons lost! Linking attendance to outcomes, BHS statistics from the 2025 exam series show that 78% of students with 95%+ attendance achieved 5 A* to C including English and Maths whilst 67% of students with 90% - 94% attendance achieved this threshold but only 22% of students with 90% or below achieve 5 A* to C with English and Maths.
In view of the information above, and to reinforce our message about the importance of attendance, I am writing regarding our revised position on holidays taken during term time. From Monday 3rd November, holidays during term time will no longer be authorised. Requests for leave due to holidays made after that date will be declined unless there are exceptional circumstances, which must be specifically communicated. Should you decide to take your children out of school for holidays during term time, this will therefore be recorded as unauthorised.
Whilst we understand that family time is important, and we appreciate the challenges some families face in arranging holidays, we ask for your full support in prioritising your child’s education by planning holidays outside of the school term.
We thank you in anticipation of your support.
Yours faithfully
Mr G Corrin
Head Teacher