Government Increases Fines for School Absences: A New Approach to Attendance in England

In a decisive move to tackle the growing issue of school absenteeism in England, the government has announced an increase in fines for parents whose children miss school without permission. This initiative comes in response to alarming statistics that reveal a significant decline in school attendance since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With approximately one in ten pupils now classified as "persistently absent," the government is taking steps to address the widening educational gaps, particularly among disadvantaged students.

The New Fine Structure

Under the revised regulations, parents will now face an £80 fine—an increase of £20—if their child is absent without a valid reason for five days within a ten-week period. If the fine is not paid within 21 days, it escalates to £160. This policy shift is part of a broader strategy to improve attendance rates, which have seen a worrying decline in recent years. Last year alone, nearly 400,000 fines were issued, with a staggering 89% attributed to parents taking their children on holiday during term time.

Previously, the rules surrounding fines were guided by school policies, but the government has now made it a legal requirement to impose these penalties. This change has sparked a mix of reactions from parents, educators, and advocacy groups.

Concerns from Parents

While the government aims to improve attendance rates, some parents are expressing deep concerns about the implications of these fines, particularly those with children who have complex needs. For instance, Becq Reynolds, a mother from Hemel Hempstead, has been grappling with the challenges of getting her son, Dominic, to school. Dominic has been awaiting a diagnosis for autism and ADHD for over two years, and his attendance has suffered as a result.

Reynolds shared her struggles, stating, "I’m under that pressure to get him into school, that results in me shouting, that results in me getting myself worked up. And no child wants to go to school with that start to the day; it’s horrible." She fears that the new law, which mandates daily attendance data to be sent to local authorities, will lead to inevitable fines for her family.

The Impact on Vulnerable Students

The issue of absenteeism is particularly concerning for vulnerable students, such as those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Schools are now faced with the challenge of balancing the enforcement of attendance policies with the need to provide adequate support for these students. Dominic’s school has expressed its commitment to supporting his return while adhering to the new regulations, but the frustrations surrounding the SEND system remain palpable.

Andrew Dunn, head teacher at Newman Catholic College in north London, emphasized the complexity of determining when to impose fines. He noted that cases involving mental health issues or other challenges require a nuanced approach. "Our approach there is to put support at home for tutoring to ensure that child is being educated," Dunn explained. He acknowledged that each absence should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, highlighting the difficulties in applying a one-size-fits-all policy.

The Broader Context

Education solicitor Sherina Kabir has voiced her concerns about the potential consequences of these fines, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. She argues that penalizing parents may be counterproductive and could exacerbate the challenges faced by families. Kabir stated, "Slapping costly fines at a time of cost-of-living crisis, or worse criminalizing parents, is counterproductive and will not improve school attendance."

In response to these concerns, a government spokesperson reiterated the importance of parental responsibility in ensuring children attend school. They emphasized that fines should only be used as a last resort, aimed at changing behavior and promoting regular attendance.

Conclusion

The government’s decision to increase fines for school absences marks a significant shift in policy aimed at addressing the pressing issue of declining attendance rates in England. While the intention is to improve educational outcomes, the implementation of these fines raises important questions about the support available for vulnerable students and the potential impact on families facing unique challenges. As schools and parents navigate this new landscape, it will be crucial to strike a balance between accountability and compassion, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to thrive in their educational journeys.