New Laws For Un Authorised School Absences

As we start the new school term it is important that parents/guardians are aware that as from 1st September 2013, two key changes to the law relating to school attendance will come into force. The first relates to leave of absence/holiday requests and the second to the payment of Penalty Notices.LEAVE OF ABSENCE/ HOLIDAYSFrom 1st September 2013, the reference in law to Head teachers/ Principals being able (at their discretion) to agree leave of absence will be removed. Instead, the legal reference will be amended and will mean that schools should not authorise leave of absence unless:• An application has been made in advance by the parent with whom the pupil normally resides AND• The Head Teacher/ Principal considers that there are exceptional circumstances relating to the application.THIS MEANS THAT FROM SEPTEMBER 2013 SCHOOLS CANNOT GRANT LEAVE OF ABSENCE FOR HOLIDAYSPENALTY NOTICES PAYMENT PERIOD The periods during which a Penalty Notice should be paid are shortening. For unauthorised absence that occurs wholly from 1st September 2013 onwards, the amount of penalty to be paid will be:• £60 if paid within 21 days of receipt of the notice and• £120 if paid within 28 days.For further information on this new law please call (0116) 2999 199 or for further information please contact the school at which your child(ren) attend.