Parents to pay more if their child skips school

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PARENTS in the county will have to cough up more if their children continually skip school under new rules.

Warwickshire County Council agreed an increase to fines for truancy meaning parents of kids who do not regularly attend school could be forced to pay up to £120.

The new penalties come into force for the new academic year and will apply to any parent who fails to ensure their child attends a state school regularly or, if the child is excluded, that they are not found without a valid reason, in a public place, during school hours.

The payments are set to increase from £50 to £60 for parents who pay within 28 days, or from £100 to £120 for those who pay within 42 days. Payment means that the parents are not liable for conviction.

The amendment is set to be made to the county council’s Code of Conduct after the cabinet agreed the changes. Fines are considered when input from social services does not bring about a return to school or other cases, such as when at least five school days have been lost due to unauthorised absence in a five week period or unauthorised holidays in term time.

Persistent late arrival at school can also result in a fine being considered.

County children's chief, Heather Timms, said: "It is essential that all of our children make the most of the education that is provided.

"We need parents to play their part in ensuring that their children go to school and the raised penalty notices, in line with national guidelines, will discourage parents from allowing their children not to be at school.

"Schools have a high target for attendance which is essential if they are to complete the curriculum and give children a broad base of learning. Parents need to work with them to achieve this for the benefit of their children."

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