Consequences of missing school- Nottingham City Council

School Attendance

School absence is proven to have a significant negative impact upon a child’s educational fulfilment and further education. This can lead to many issues such as:

• Fall behind with their schoolwork
• Do less well in their exams
• Miss out on social interaction and necessary life skills 
• Be involved in antisocial behaviour or crime
• Future acceptance of jobs/college/university

Regular attendance is not only a legal requirement but is essential for children/young people to maximise their educational opportunities.

Responsibilities

Parents/carers have a responsibility to ensure their child’s regular attendance at school or otherwise. It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure that their child is educated according to their age, ability and aptitude, and any special educational needs they may have.

Penalty Notices

Failure to ensure regular attendance at school may lead to a penalty notice being issued or legal action this may result:

• In a fine of up to £2,500,
• Imprisonment or a custodial sentence.