The law requires all parents to ensure their child attends school regularly and on time. Research shows that children often do not catch up on work missed, and this is highly likely to have serious consequences for their learning and progress. The government is very clear that all schools must aim to have the highest possible attendance for all of their pupils in order for them to achieve their potential. The school target is 96% attendance.

The Local Authority have introduced a system where any pupil who has an attendance of 90% or less is deemed a ‘persistent absentee’. The school and parents need to work together to improve attendance. If initial intervention does not work the 'Fast Track' process will be started. If this does not work parents could face legal action.