Children of compulsory school-age are entitled to a full-time suitable education. Parents have a legal responsibility to make sure their child receives education, whether at school or through education provided otherwise (as per Section 7 of the Education Act 1996).
The local authority has some legal powers they can use if a child is missing school without a good reason:
- Parenting Order
- Education Supervision Order
- School Attendance Order
- Penalty Notice
Research consistently shows that higher attendance rates are associated with better academic performance. The government has a continued focus on improving attendance in schools and has published statutory guidance for:
- Maintained schools
- Academies
- Independent schools
- Local authorities.
The Working together to improve school attendance guidance says:
Some pupils find it harder than others to attend school and therefore at all stages of improving attendance, schools and partners should work in partnership with pupils and parents collaboratively to remove any barriers to attendance by building strong and trusting relationships and working together to put the right support in place. Securing good attendance cannot therefore be seen in isolation…(9)
Children with SEND may face various challenges that make it difficult for them to attend school regularly.
Anxiety or sensory overload are common factors affecting attendance, which are often not easy to pin-point. If you think there may be underlying needs affecting your child’s attendance, discuss and explore with school how these might be supported.
Attendance cannot be looked at on its own and it will be important to discuss with school (or the local authority) your family and child’s wider needs and what support they might need to help them to attend.
Your child’s views and feelings are the starting point to understanding what may help them to attend or engage with education. Read our information ‘Child/young person’s voice‘