Religious observance absence coding procedure

This procedure applies when absence is requested for religious observance.

Determine whether the day qualifies

Record the religious-observance absence code only where the day is exclusively set apart for religious observance by the religious body to which the parent belongs. The day must be set apart by the religious body, not solely by the parent or parents.

Requests for more than one day

Where a religious body has set apart a single day for a religious observance and more than one day is requested, use the religious-observance absence code for only the qualifying day.

Assess any additional requested days separately under the school's exceptional-leave arrangements. Do not automatically record additional days using the religious-observance absence code.

Apply the decision

Record the qualifying day using the religious-observance absence code. Consider any additional requested time separately as leave of absence under the applicable exceptional-leave arrangements.