Is Your Child in School Today?
Every child or young person is entitled to an education. Parents who do not ensure their children receive an appropriate education put their whole future at risk. Being absent from school means a lost learning opportunity.
The Law
All children of compulsory school age (between 5 and 16) are required to receive an education. As parents/carers you are responsible for ensuring your child receives an education. You risk criminal prosecution if your child fails to attend regularly, and punctually, at the school where s/he is registered. Prosecutions may result in fines of up to £2,500 and/or the possibility of a three months imprisonment. Courts may at their discretion impose a parenting order or direct the LEA to apply for an Education Supervision Order which puts a child of compulsory school age, who is not being properly educated under Local Education Authority supervision.
Remember children rely on adults for guidance
Good Habits
Regular attendance including punctuality helps your child become reliable and organised - two qualities valued by employers.
All Hackney Schools are responsible for keeping accurate records of attendance. School will contact you with any concerns they have regarding your child′s attendance. The Education Attendance Service works closely with school staff, parents, and when necessary, other agencies to help you and your child overcome any attendance problems.
Communication
If your child is absent you should contact the school the same day with the reason for the absence. The school will inform you if your child's absence or lateness causes concern and will work with you to find a way of improving your child's attendance.
Authorised or unauthorised absences
- Absences can only be authorised by your child's school. Legitimate reasons for absence, including the following, may be authorised by your child's school:
- Sickness
- Medical or dental appointments
- (where ever possible these should be arranged outside of school hours).
- Days of religious observance
- Exceptional family circumstances e.g. bereavement
The following absences will not be authorised by your child's school:
- Looking after the house
- Looking after brothers and sisters or sick relatives
- Shopping
- Birthdays
- Translating
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0208 820 7000