Under new government guidance, parents who take their child out of school during term time face higher fines and even prosecution.
Barnsley Council is preparing to adopt and enforce these stricter rules, which include fines per child and potential prosecution for parents who remove their children from school during term time.
BMBC will approve the new regulations during its next cabinet meeting on June 10.
Parents whose children miss more than five days of school will be fined £80 per child, increasing to £160 if unpaid within 21 days. If parents take their child out of school a second time within three years, they will be fined £160 per child, and a third occasion could lead to prosecution.
Fines will also be considered when there have been ten unauthorized absences in 10 weeks.
Cases found guilty in magistrates’ court can be reflected on the parent’s future DBS certificate due to “failure to safeguard a child’s education.”
The government emphasizes that the new measures are crucial for children’s education, broader development, and mental health.
Carly Speechley, executive director for children’s services, said, “We are committed to ensuring that all children and young people in the borough have access to high-quality education and achieve their full potential.
“Poor school attendance can have a negative impact on academic achievement, social development, and future prospects for young people.
“By working together, we can make sure that our children receive the best possible education.”
The rules will take effect in the new school year.
