Attending school regularly is key to ensuring good exam results. Parents have a legal responsibility to make sure that their children attend school regularly. This means:
- attending school every day
- arriving at school on time
- attending every lesson
Any requests for leave of absence during term time must be sent in writing, with plenty of notice, to the head teacher of your child's school. Generally, leave of absences during term time are agreed only in exceptional circumstances.
Schools and the Education Welfare Service will provide pupils and parents with support to overcome barriers to children attending school regularly. The Education and Inspections Act 2006.
There are consequences if parents do not ensure regular attendance.
Penalty notices (240KB) may be issued to parents for unauthorised absences, persistent lateness and missing lessons by their child. If unpaid after 42 days, these can be referred to a Magistrates' Court. If convicted, the parents could receive a criminal record.