Flexi-Schooling at Radwinter CofE Primary School

At Radwinter CofE Primary School, a small, caring Church of England voluntary aided primary school, we are committed to providing a happy, secure environment where every child can flourish and grow. This page explains our approach to flexi-schooling (parent-requested split attendance), outlining when we will consider requests, the responsibilities involved and how we ensure the best outcomes for our pupils within our community.

Our Approach to Flexi-Schooling

Flexi-schooling is not the school’s default or preferred arrangement. We recognise that every child is unique, reflecting our Christian values of fairness, kindness and respect, but we believe that full-time education in school best supports a child’s development and sense of belonging. Flexi-schooling requests will only be considered in very exceptional circumstances, supported by independent evidence from external professionals or agencies.

No legal entitlement: Flexi-schooling is at the discretion of the school and may be refused by the Headteacher.
Exceptional circumstances only: Requests must be supported by detailed evidence from recognised professionals, such as paediatricians, educational psychologists or social workers.
Aligned with Essex County Council guidance: Our policy follows local authority recommendations to ensure consistency and safeguarding.

Core Principles and Parental Responsibilities

Parents and carers retain legal responsibility for ensuring their child receives a full-time, suitable education at statutory school age. To support our shared vision of “growing and learning together,” it is essential that any flexi-schooling arrangement maintains this standard.

Parental planning: Parents must submit a written proposal outlining how home education days will complement school attendance to make a full-time programme.
No additional school workload: The school will not provide bespoke home learning packs or remote teaching beyond minimal discretionary guidance.
Consistency is key: Flexi-schooling agreements must specify set days and times each week and be adhered to strictly. Ad hoc or variable attendance is not permitted.
Missed school activities: Parents should be aware children may miss key events such as assemblies, trips and assessments on home days.
Third-party educators: If parents employ someone to educate their child at home, parents are responsible for that person’s suitability and any associated costs.

How Requests Are Handled

The process is designed to be clear, fair, and timely, reflecting our values of transparency and respect for all parties involved.

Written request: Parents must submit a request with supporting evidence to the Headteacher or named pastoral lead.
Response times: The school will acknowledge receipt within 5 school days and aim to decide within 15 school days.
Meetings: Discussions with parents and external professionals may be arranged to fully understand each case.
Decision-making: The Headteacher, with input from the SENCO and others, considers each request individually.
Written agreement: If approved, a formal, time-limited agreement will be signed, detailing attendance patterns, responsibilities and review arrangements.

Monitoring, Recording, and Accountability

We are committed to ensuring that every child’s education and wellbeing are safeguarded throughout any flexi-schooling arrangement.

Attendance coding: Home education days under flexi-schooling are recorded as authorised absence (‘C’ code).
No supervisory role: The school does not supervise children during home education sessions.
Ongoing monitoring: Progress is monitored at agreed intervals. The school may withdraw the agreement if the arrangement harms the child’s progress or welfare.
Governance: The Governing Body receives anonymised reports on flexi-schooling cases as part of safeguarding and attendance oversight.
OFSTED compliance: We are prepared to explain and demonstrate our flexi-schooling arrangements during inspections.

Safeguarding, SEND, and EHCP Considerations

Safeguarding remains a top priority, reflecting our Christian commitment to kindness and dignity.

Safety first: The school will not agree to arrangements that compromise a child’s safety or wellbeing.
Parental responsibility: Parents are responsible for safeguarding during home education sessions.
Concerns: If safeguarding issues arise, the school will act in line with safeguarding procedures and may withdraw the agreement.
SEND and EHCP: For children with Education, Health and Care Plans, flexi-schooling decisions are made jointly with the Local Authority and recorded on the EHCP. Progress is reviewed through established processes.

If a Request Is Refused or an Agreement Withdrawn

We understand that flexi-schooling decisions can be sensitive. We commit to clear communication and support.

Written explanation: Reasons for refusal or withdrawal will be provided in writing.
Alternative support: We will outline options to support full-time attendance.
Complaint routes: Parents may appeal to the Headteacher and, if necessary, the Governing Body.
Notice periods: Withdrawal normally requires reasonable notice unless immediate action is needed to protect the child.

Summary

At Radwinter CofE Primary School, our approach to flexi-schooling balances parental choice with our responsibility to provide a full-time, inclusive and high-quality education. Rooted in our Christian vision of life in all its fullness, we strive to ensure every child feels valued, supported and able to flourish. While flexi-schooling is rare and carefully managed, we remain committed to working closely with families to meet the best interests of each child.

For further information or to discuss a potential flexi-schooling request, please contact the Headteacher via office@radwinter.essex.sch.uk. Together, we can continue to nurture our children’s growth, learning and wellbeing in line with our shared values.