Posted on: Friday 17 April 2026
A parent has been prosecuted for failing to ensure their home educated child received a suitable education.
Cwmbran Magistrates Court heard the parent was issued with a School Attendance Order after they failed to provide evidence of the secondary school aged boy’s education and did not engage with the council’s Elective Home Education team.
The court heard the council made repeated attempts to work with the family and provide home education support, but professionals were unable to establish the child’s current educational level.
The parent did not attend court this week, but magistrates allowed the case to proceed in their absence.
They were found guilty of failing to comply with a School Attendance Order and fined £660, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £264 and costs of £120, totalling £1044 which is payable within 28 days.
Andrew Powles, Director of Education, said: “Every child has the right to a suitable education, and we seek to work constructively with families who elect to home education their children. But if parents fail to engage or comply with legal requirements, we will take action to safeguard children’s educational welfare.”
Local authorities have a legal duty to ensure all children of compulsory school age receive a suitable, efficient education, whether in school or through elective home education.
Parents who choose to educate their children at home assume legal responsibility for their child’s education and must demonstrate an appropriate education is being provided.
Anyone considering elective home education is encouraged to contact the council’s Education Welfare Service who can offer advice and guidance. For more information: Elective home education | Torfaen County Borough Council