Term Dates

2019-2020 Term Dates

For Term Dates beyond September 2021, please visit the Darlington Borough Council website. Please note, however, that these dates are subject to change.

Holidays in Term Time

Longfield recognises the importance of full attendance and aims to ensure that all pupils achieve and maintain high standards of attendance and punctuality. We are committed to providing a full and efficient educational experience for all pupils and we feel that our parents/carers provide the school with outstanding support.

School is required by law to ensure that absences are recorded accurately.

Permission from the Headteacher must be sought for all absences that occur during term-time. A ‘request for leave of absence’ form must be completed in advance of the absence. This form can be downloaded from here, or you can collect a printed copy from school reception.

Holidays taken in term time can have a very negative impact on a pupil’s education, as well as school’s attendance statistics and examination results. Research has shown that a 10% drop in attendance (equivalent to 19 ½ days in a school year) can mean a one grade drop at GCSE.

Under current regulations, schools cannot authorise any holidays taken in term time unless there are “exceptional circumstances”, deemed “exceptional” by the Headteacher. If the Headteacher decides not to authorise the holiday and he intends to refer to the Local Authority for a Penalty Fine should the holiday go ahead, he will write to the parent/carer warning of his intention.

At Longfield, we appreciate parents/carers who support excellent attendance throughout the school year. Therefore, if permission has been requested in advance and a pupil’s attendance is above 95% just prior to the holiday taking place, school will not refer for a Penalty Fine.  Please note, however, that all holidays taken during the first half term will be subject to a Penalty Fine.

If you have any questions about attendance or would like further information, please contact Mrs Brown, Attendance Manager, on 01325 348149.