The WGLG FE Learning Agreement form asks if a student is experiencing 'extenuating circumstances that may affect attendance'. This question helps to highlight vulnerable students so you can support them if their circumstances unavoidably affect their attendance.

Extenuating circumstances may include caring responsibilities and disability, but are not limited to these. Students do not need to supply evidence to prove their extenuating circumstances, but you can ask for evidence if you find it necessary.

If you have any discussions with the student about their extenuating circumstances, you can add this information to the Notes field on the Customer Search tab of the Learning Centre Portal. Before you can add a note, you must have the student's consent to do so.

Marking attendance

If the student has said they’re experiencing extenuating circumstances, the Extenuating Circumstances radio button will be selected for them on the Maintain Course Details tab of the Learning Centre Portal.

This will remind you to consider the student’s situation when you mark attendance. You should review individual circumstances to ensure the student is not unnecessarily marked as not in attendance.

However, a student selecting extenuating circumstances does not mean you should always automatically mark them as in attendance. You're responsible for submitting correct attendance confirmations each time.

When you discuss the student’s extenuating circumstances, it is best practice to find out if there are any other resources to support them.

Adding a note to the student’s record may also help you decide how to submit attendance confirmations in the future.