Attendance Matters
Receiving a good, full-time education will give your child the best possible start in life. Attending school regularly and punctually is essential if children are to make the most of the educational opportunities available to them.
WHAT PARENTS CAN DO TO HELP
If you know or think that your child is having difficulties attending school you should contact the school. The staff will do their best to help you. It is better to do this sooner rather than later, as most problems can be dealt with very quickly.
If the problems continue, either you or the school can ask for help from an Education Welfare Officer.
THE LAW
The law says that parents must ensure that their child regularly attends the school where he/she is registered.
Should your child fail to attend school regularly legal action may be be taken against you.
This legal action could result in:
- you being prosecuted in the magistrates court where if found guilty you could be fined up to £2,500 and/or sentenced to 3 months imprisonment,
or
- the County County Council applying for an Education Supervision Order in the Family Court.
Or you could be subject to a Fixed Penalty fine of £50.