Studybugs - Absence Reporting

This guide explains how to use Studybugs to report your child's absence due to illness. Studybugs is our safe, quick online system that helps us track attendance and keep your child safe.

Report that your child will be absent 

Why we use Studybugs

Studybugs updates our registers automatically so teachers know your child is safe at home. It also reduces manual administrative tasks, which allows our Attendance Team to spend more time supporting students and families directly. Every message sent through Studybugs is read by our Attendance Team and recorded directly onto our SIMs system.

How to set up your account

Please set up your free account as soon as possible. You can use a web browser on a computer or download the mobile app.

Step 1: Create your account

• Visit the Studybugs website at studybugs.com/about/parents
• Click Sign in and then click Register free at the bottom of the box.
• Open your email inbox and click the activation link to complete your setup.

Step 2: Add your child

• Log in to your new Studybugs account.
• Click the Edit button located under your name.
• Add your child or children who attend The Bulmershe School.

How to report on-the-day illness

When your child is unwell and cannot attend school, please submit a report using Studybugs before 9am:

• Option 1: Open the Studybugs app on your phone, select your child and follow the short prompts on screen.

• Option 2: Visit our school website, click the Parents menu at the top left of the page, select Studybugs, choose your child and answer the brief questions.

How to report future appointments

Please use Studybugs for all medical and dental appointment notifications. You do not need to email reception or attendance separately unless you need to attach official documents.

Step 1: Open Studybugs

• Open the Studybugs app or log in via the website.

Step 2: Send a message

• Tap the square icon with a pen in the top right corner.
• Select Send other message.

Step 3: Include key details

• Type the exact date, time and reason for the upcoming appointment (such as an orthodontist visit).

Our Attendance Team will read the message and manually update the SIMs attendance register.

If you need to share official appointment letters or medical documents with the school, please email them directly to attendance@bulmershe.wokingham.sch.uk.

Please note that Studybugs must not be used to request a leave of absence for holidays or personal events. To request a leave of absence, you must complete the official request form found on our absence page.

We encourage all families to start using Studybugs straight away to get used to the system. From 1st January 2027, Studybugs will become our only method for reporting student absences.

Frequently asked questions

Are my Studybugs messages actually read by staff?
Yes. Our Attendance Team reads every message and absence report daily.

What if I do not have a smartphone?
You do not need a smartphone to use Studybugs. You can log into your account using any computer or tablet with internet access by visiting studybugs.com.

What if I forget my password?
Click the Sign in button on the Studybugs website or app, then select Forgot password. Enter your registered email address to receive a link to reset your password.

Do I need to report the absence every day?
Yes. Please submit a report before 9am each day your child is absent so our attendance registers remain accurate.

Who to contact for help?
If you experience any issues setting up your account, please email our school reception team who will be happy to assist you.