The information on this page is presented in the format of frequently asked questions. Please click a question from the index below to see the appropriate answer.
What is 'unauthorised absence' from school?
If your child is absent from school the headteacher may authorise the absence if you have informed the school of the reason and it is agreed that it was unavoidable that the child was absent. Any other absence is unauthorised, including persistent lateness to school after the register has closed and holidays taken in term time without the headteacher's agreement.
How do I check if my child has unauthorised absences from school?
You can check if your child has unauthorised absences by asking your child’s school to check the register and by keeping in regular contact if your child is absent. The Attendance Improvement Officer for the school may be able to help if you are concerned about the amount of absence.
What is a penalty notice for unauthorised absence from school?
The education welfare service issues penalty notices to parents if their child has 20 or more sessions of unauthorised absences in a 12 week period (a session means a morning or an afternoon). A penalty notice is: 1) a fine of £50 (if paid within 28 days) 2) a fine of £100 if paid after 28 days and before 42 days) and 3) if not paid, a prosecution in the magistrates court under section 444 of the Education Act 1996 with a maximum fine of £1,000 if found guilty.
Can penalty notices for unauthorised absence from school be withdrawn?
A penalty notice can only be withdrawn if:
a) it was issued to the wrong person or
b) it was not issued according to the Slough Borough Council protocol. The protocol may be requested from an Attendance Improvement Officer.
Who should I talk to if my child is experiencing difficulty in attending school?
It is important to seek help at the earliest stage, firstly with the class teacher and the head teacher. Each school also has an attendance improvement officer based at the local authority who is able to give help, advice and support in situations where children are experiencing problems of school attendance. You can contact an attendance improvement officer on (01753) 787670.
Where can I get further information about attendance at school?
Further information about attendance at school is available from:
For all enquiries please contact the Customer Service Centre
01753 475111
My Council
Landmark Place
High Street
Slough
opposite Slough Library
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