"Missing out on school seriously undermines children’s opportunities,” said Councillor Meg Stroude, Lead Member for Children and Families. "A child who misses school, even for short periods, may be limiting their choices for the future.”
Parents and carers have already been given information about the introduction of penalty notices. A new leaflet reminding them of their responsibilities is now available. The leaflet also explains how the new penalty notices work and when they may be issued by the county council.
Parents have a legal responsibility to make sure their child receives an education, and parents commit an offence if their child regularly fails to attend school. A penalty notice is an alternative to prosecution – it can help improve a child’s attendance without a parent having to face a court prosecution. A penalty notice may be issued in a range of situations – for example, truancy, unauthorised holidays during term time, or where a parent condones unauthorised absences – but is only issued after an initial written warning.
"We would not issue a penalty notice lightly, and would much rather parents and carers work with schools and educational welfare officers to improve a child’s attendance,” said Councillor Stroude. "Parents who have problems with their child’s attendance can contact schools or the Education Welfare Service for advice and support. But we also believe that regular school attendance is vital for a child’s development and for their future, and will use this power if it is the only way to secure a child’s attendance”
Notes to editors
- Penalty notices are issued after an initial written warning.
- To receive a penalty notice, a pupil will have been absent without authorisation for at least 5 school days during the current term, or 10 days during the year before a penalty notice is considered.
- Payment of a notice is £50, if paid within 28 days of receipt, or £100 if paid later by within 42 days of receipt. Any money paid is used to administer the system and pay for any prosecution costs.
- For more information see our pages about school attendance and behaviour.
Reference:
05/318/CJ
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