At Firth Park Academy, we're committed to working collaboratively with families to support regular attendance. However, in situations where persistent concerns remain despite our best efforts, we may need to explore additional measures to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive in a positive learning environment.

Our goal is always to find positive solutions, and enforcement strategies are utilised as a last resort after consistent communication, understanding, and support haven't led to sustained improvement. Potential measures include:

• Attendance contracts: A collaborative agreement outlining specific steps to improve attendance.

• Education Supervision Orders: These may be implemented by the Local Authority to promote school attendance.

• School Attendance Orders: Issued by the courts, outlining legal requirements for children to attend school regularly.

• Fines (penalty notices): from August 2024, schools must consider escalating cases of irregular absence.  If your child misses 10 sessions within a 10-week period, then this will be reported to the Local Authority and could result in a Fixed Penalty Notice.

• Prosecution: where there is evidence of educational neglect, this can lead to prosecution including fines of up to £2500 and even custodial sentences.  These are pursued as a last resort for continued disregard of attendance regulations. This could lead to a Parenting Order being issued by the courts.

We understand that these measures are undesirable, and we emphasise that our hope is always to work together to find positive solutions. We provide access to resources and support systems to address underlying challenges impacting attendance, such as social or emotional difficulties, and offer guidance to navigate complex situations.

Ultimately, our goal is to create a nurturing environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to attend school regularly and unlock their full potential.

If you or your child requires additional support, please contact the Attendance Manager, CJ Lee, at clee@firthparkacademy.org.