National Education Policy Act, 1996 (Act No. 27 of 1996)

Policies

Policy on Learner Attendance

E. Learner Absence

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Definition of 'absent'

 

12)A learner is deemed to be absent from school when the learner is not present in class or not participating in a school activity when the register is marked.

 

Valid reason for absence

 

13)While punctual and regular attendance is necessary, from time to time it may not be possible or desirable for a learner to attend school. Any of the following is a valid reason for absence of a learner from school:
a)study leave taken by a Grade 12 learner in terms of paragraph 16 of this policy;
b)physical or psychological illness, for which a principal may require communication from the parent that the learner is unable to attend school, or written confirmation by a registered medical practitioner or traditional healer if the illness lasts longer than three days;
c)giving birth, subject to written confirmation by a registered medical practitioner or registered midwife;
d)religious or cultural observances approved by the School Governing Body (SGB) in terms of the National School Calendar Policy;
e)death of a family member;
f)appointment at court, social services or other official agency, for which a principal may require documentary proof;
g)suspension by the SGB;
h)acts of nature (that is, events that are outside of human control);
i)exceptional circumstances for which, in the view of the principal, a temporary absence from school-
i)is in the best interest of the learner; or
ii)was unavoidable.