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

Policies

Policy on Learner Attendance

E. Learner Absence

 

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.