Non Attendance (Fixed Penalty Notices)

The Welsh Government has introduced important amendments to legislation regarding school attendance. The Education Act 1996 makes it a criminal offence for a parent to "fail to secure their child's regular attendance at the school". The new amendments include a penalty notice scheme. This means that from September 2014 a headteacher can request the issue of a Fixed Penalty Notice for irregular attendance of a child or young person registered in their school. This includes pupils who attend an alternative education provision arranged by the Council.

Examples of when a Fixed Penalty Notice can be issued

Unauthorised absences

Where at least 10 sessions (5 schools days) are lost to unauthorised absences (these do not need to be consecutive). You will receive a formal notification from the Head teacher explaining the actions that may be taken.

Holidays in term time

A Fixed Penalty Notice can be issued for unauthorised leave of absence for 10 sessions (five school days) or more during term time; these have to be consecutive school days.Persistent late arrival – at least 10 sessions of late arrival at school after the register has closed (there are two sessions in a school day, morning and afternoon).

Truancy

Where a child or young person comes to the attention of the Police during school hours for being absent from their registered school without an acceptable reason.

Penalties

• £60 per parent per child if paid within 28 days
• £120 per parent per child if paid after 28 days and before 42 days
• After 42 days you will receive a summons to appear before the Magistrate' court

Further information

Further information is available in the Local Code of Conduct - Education Fixed Penalty document.