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Absence Guidance

Attendance is a key requirement to fully benefit from the opportunities provided, successfully graduate from the programme, and be eligible for a contextual offer. This guidance outlines the process and requirements for authorised absences from all LSE Widening Participation sustained programmes, including Pathways to Law, Pathways to Banking and Finance, Springboard, and Thrive.

1. Legitimate Reasons for Absence

Authorised absences will only be granted for legitimate reasons, including but not limited to:

  • Illness or medical appointments
  • Family emergencies 
  • School or academic commitments (e.g., exams) 
  • Religious or cultural observances 
  • Other extenuating circumstances (to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis) 

2. Advance Notification

  • You should communicate any absences at the earliest opportunity before your activity is due to take place. 
  • In cases of unforeseen circumstances, you should notify the programme team as soon as possible and prior to the start of the activity. 
  • You should report absences via the central communication channel provided by your programme (e.g., programme email address or phone number). 
  • You need to include clear details of your absence (including your name, programme, and reason for the absence) in your notification. 
  • If you do not report your absence before the start of the activity, the programme delivery team will contact you and your parent/carer to verify your whereabouts in line with LSE Widening Participation safeguarding procedures. 

3. Verification of Absence

  • Your absence must be verified by a parent, carer, or teacher. 
  • Verification can be provided in writing (e.g., email or text message) or through direct communication with programme organisers (e.g., phone call or conversation with LSE staff). 
  • If verification cannot be provided in advance, it must be submitted as soon as possible following your absence and will be followed up by programme staff. 

4. Supporting Evidence

  • In certain cases, such as repeated or sustained absences, you may be asked to provide supporting evidence (e.g., medical note, school letter) to verify your reason for absence. 
  • If you fail to provide the requested evidence, your absence may be marked as unauthorised. 

5. Impact of Unauthorised Absences

  • Repeated unauthorised absences may affect your ability to continue on the programme. 
  • Your parent/carer and you will be informed if your attendance becomes a concern. 

By following this guidance, you can ensure that any absences are managed responsibly and transparently, supporting both your engagement and the overall success of the programme. If you have any questions or concerns about the above, you should contact your programme team.  

 

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