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School attendance and truancy

 
Absence from school damages a child's chance to achieve, disrupts school routines, and can leave a child vulnerable to anti-social behaviour and youth crime. Missing school also affects a child's ability to access employment, further education or training.

Authorised absences

If your child is ill or unable to attend school for some reason you must contact the school by phone and/or letter to inform them. The school will then "authorise" the absence. 

Unauthorised absences

Without a good reason for your child being absent from school it will be registered as an unauthorised absence.

If your child has ten unauthorised absences in an academic year, you may be liable for a Penalty Notice which carries with it a fine of £100 (reduced to £50 if paid within 28 days).

Find out more about Fixed Penalty Notices.

Can I get help if my child is not attending properly?

Yes. To begin with, you should talk to your child's school. There is a lot they can do to help. If your child is causing you particular concern you can also contact the Council's Attendance Advisory Service using the number on the right.

What sort of absences can be authorised?

Legitimate reasons for absence include the following:

  • sickness
  • medical or dental appointments (however, these should be arranged for outside school hours wherever possible)
  • days of religious observance
  • exceptional family circumstances, e.g. bereavement.
The following types of absence will not be authorised by your child's school:

  • birthdays
  • looking after others at home
  • shopping
  • translating for adults.

Further information

Find out about how the Department for Children, Schools and Families is aiming to raise standards in the borough through the Excellence in Cities initiative.

A to Z of Services

Attendance Advisory Service

  • 020 8921 8510/8511

Useful links