School attendance and absence

Children should be in school every day if they can.

This page explains what to do if your child cannot attend, how the school can help, and what happens if attendance stays low.

It also explains fines and where to get support.

Key tasks

• Report an absence
• Get help if your child is struggling to attend
• Find out what happens if attendance does not improve
• Understand penalty notices and prosecution – including rules on term-time holidays and other unauthorised absences taken during term time.

What you’ll find on these pages

Short, clear guides explaining:

• what attendance is and why it matters
• what to do when your child cannot attend
• how schools work with you to improve attendance
• the legal steps (penalty notices and prosecution)
• support options, including help with special educational needs and disability (SEND), anxiety or long-term needs