Truancy: a parents guide
How the authorities deal with truancy
Parenting Contracts
The Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003, Section 19, sets out provision for Governing Bodies and Local Authorities to enter into Parenting Contracts in case of exclusion from school or truancy. If a pupil fails to attend school regularly, the Local Authority or the Governing Body of a school may consider whether it is appropriate to offer a Parenting Contract to the parent/carer.
A Parenting Contract is a formal, voluntary written agreement between a parent/carer and either the Governors of a school or Children and Young People's Services. It is a time-limited plan that seeks to bring about change in the way parents support their child's education. It sets out what the parents and school will do to support an improvement in the child's attendance at school.
Contents of Truancy: a parents guide
- What every parent has to know
- The importance of regular school attendance
- What the law says
- Your responsibilities as a parent
- Authorised absence
- Unauthorised absence
- Taking family holidays during term-time
- Tips for good attendance
- How the authorities deal with truancy (this page)
- Legal interventions
- Penalty Notices
- The offence of failing to ensure regular school attendance
- Frequently asked questions
