School Attendance

The Education Act 1996, Section 444(1) states "If a child of compulsory school age who is a registered pupil at school fails to attend regularly at that school, his/her parents are guilty of an offence."

Why is it important to attend school?

Most parents want their child to achieve their full potential. Today, it is more important than ever to have a good education. Children only get one chance at school, and your child's chances of a successful future may be affected by not attending regularly.  Research suggests every 17 days missed from school may impact on an attainment grade.

If a child does not attend regularly, they may not be able to keep up with school work. In a busy day it can be difficult for teachers to find the extra time to help a child catch up.

School is not only about academic work. Missing out on the social side of school life - especially at primary school - can affect a child's ability to make and keep friends and work alongside people later in life.

Establishing a good attendance routine from an early age will also help your child throughout life. Punctuality is vital in so many aspects of modern life. Arriving late to school is disruptive to your child, the other children in their class and the teacher.

Colleges and employers want to recruit people who are reliable. Children with a poor attendance record are less likely to secure a college placement or employment.

Education Welfare Officers work closely with families and schools to resolve attendance issues. They can help family's access appropriate help when pupils are experiencing difficulties in school or welfare issues are disrupting a child's education.

What the law states

The law states all children of compulsory school age (5 - 16) should receive a suitable education, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.

It is a parent's responsibility to ensure their child attends school regularly. North East Lincolnshire Council has a duty to enforce this responsibility.

The duty is exercised through the Education Welfare Service (EWS), which also fulfils the Local Authority's statutory responsibility for monitoring the attendance of all pupils.

What will happen if a child does not attend school regularly?

If your child of compulsory school age, is registered at school and is not attending regularly, you will be contacted by school staff who will offer advice and support.

If your child's attendance then fails to improve, school will refer the case to the Education Welfare Service who may action the Local Authority Enforcement Procedure. This is also known as the Fast Track to Enforcement Procedure. 

If your child's attendance does not improve through the enforcement procedure, parents/carers can receive up to three months imprisonment or fined £2,500.

Parents can also receive a penalty notice (Link to penalty notices) for a period of unauthorised absence. For example, this could be unauthorised holidays in term time or being present in a public place during school hours when excluded from school.

Specialist Education Welfare Officers provide additional support by monitoring all children and young people in North East Lincolnshire within their specialism.

If you have concerns regarding the attendance of your child, please contact your child's school. Should you require further advice please contact  the Education Welfare Service.

Tips for Good School Attendance