We want every child in Oldham to have the best start in life.
As a parent, guardian, or carer, you play a big part in this by helping your child attend school regularly so they can achieve their best.
Going to school regularly helps children do well in their studies, including Key Stage, GCSE, and A-Level exams.
It’s also important for their well-being and personal growth. At school, they make friends and learn life skills.
If a child misses school often, they can fall behind, which could affect their future job opportunities.
Good attendance shows employers that a young person is dependable. It also helps them succeed and contribute positively to their community. So, being in school is an important step toward their future.
Authorised absences
Schools will only allow a child to miss school in certain situations. Your child must attend school every day unless:
- They are too sick to go.
- You’ve asked the school in advance and they’ve approved an absence for exceptional reasons.
- They are observing a religious event.
- Oldham Council is responsible for arranging your child’s transport to school and it’s not available.
- Your child doesn’t have a permanent home, and you need to travel for work. In this case, they must attend their regular school or a school near where you are staying as often as possible, at least 200 half-days a year if they are 6 or older.
These are the only reasons schools can allow an absence.
If your child can’t go to school for one of these reasons, you must inform the school by phone or letter, and the school will approve the absence.
Unauthorised absences
National rules mean schools must consider issuing a fine if a child misses 10 or more sessions (5 days) without a valid reason.
- Find out more information on school absence laws - gov.uk website
The fine will be £80 if paid within 21 days or £160 if paid within 28 days.
If a parent gets a second fine for the same child within three years, the amount will be £160.
Parents can only be fined twice within a three-year period. After that, other steps like a parenting order or prosecution may be taken.
If prosecuted, you could face a court fine of up to £2,500
Paying fines
You can pay school attendance fines online:
Support to improve a child’s attendance
The council offers expert support and advice to schools, families, and pupils through the Education Attendance Service. This service helps with anything related to school attendance.
If your child is having trouble attending school or you need advice, you can contact us:
- Phone: 0161 770 6620
- Email: sais@oldham.gov.uk