Overview

This bill aims to improve the tracking and support of children in England who are not attending school full-time. It introduces mandatory registers for such children, requires local authorities to offer support to their families, and strengthens school attendance orders.

Description

Registers of Children Not in School

Local authorities must maintain registers of children of compulsory school age within their area who are not full-time pupils at a school, or are registered at a school but receiving education elsewhere for some or all of the school time. The registers will contain details like the child's name, address, parents' details, educational arrangements, special educational needs, and any involvement with social services. Information considered to be sensitive, such as a child's name and address, will be protected from public release. Parents are required to inform the local authority of their child's eligibility, and provide requested information; Failure to do so may incur a penalty. Educational providers giving out-of-school education for a significant period also need to provide information to local authorities.

Support for Families

Local authorities must provide support to families of children on the register who request it, including advice, information, and potentially financial assistance.

School Attendance Orders

The bill enhances the process of school attendance orders. A preliminary notice is issued if a child is not receiving suitable education. If the parents fail to demonstrate that the child is being suitably educated, a school attendance order can be made, compelling the child's attendance at a specified school. The process includes a school nomination notice, allowing parents input into school selection, unless an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan already names a school. Failure to comply with a school attendance order is a criminal offence, with potential penalties including fines or imprisonment.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, it will likely lead to increased costs for local authorities in maintaining registers, providing support services, and enforcing school attendance orders. The exact financial impact will depend on the number of children registered and the level of support required.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Will be responsible for maintaining registers, providing support services, issuing notices and orders, and potentially enforcing penalties. Increased workload and costs are expected.
• Parents of children not in school: Will be required to register their children and provide information to local authorities. They may also receive support services. Failure to comply with the legislation is punishable.
• Schools: Will be required to admit children subject to school attendance orders.
• Out-of-school educational providers: Will need to provide information to local authorities about children they educate for a significant amount of time.
• Children not in school: Will be subject to increased monitoring and support, potentially resulting in compulsory school attendance.

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