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Truancy

Truancy is also know as AWOL - Bunking Off - Skiving - Wagging it

Did you know?

  • The law says that all children must have educational provision made for them from the age of 5 to the age of 16. In most cases this means attending school.
  • The law also says that it is the responsibility of the child's parents or carers to make sure that they attend school. If a child is repeatedly absent from school without good reason - then the child's parents or carers can be prosecuted.

Some people feel that truancy is a minor issues we've all done it at one time or another. However, in today's society it can have very serious repercussions - not least that your child is missing out on their chance to get qualifications.

Take a look at the effects of truancy below - how many were you familiar with?

Truancy can affect everyone in the family. The Law... Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000. The law says it is your parents responsibility to make sure that you go to school. If you don't go, they could be fined up to £2,5000 or be jailed for a maximum of three months. How would your family be affected by a large fine or a jail sentence?




Schools are communities, they aren't just about lessons. Do you want to be on the outside?. FACT: Schools are safe places. There are adults on hand to help if you get into difficulties. Hanging around in lonely places can put you are risk - in many ways




Truants' have time on their hands. Figures show that they don't use it well. Official Figures show that... 40% of street crime, 25% of burglaries, 20% of criminal damage is carried out by truanting 10-16 year olds. Young people who truant are more likely to be involved in crimes and be victims of crimes.




Schools, Police and Local Authorities want to stamp out truancy. They can and do take action. Crime and Disorder Act 1998. 1. If the police see you in a public place and believe you are of school age and absent without permission, they may take you back to school - or another place arranged by the local authority. 2. Police and local Education Authorities frequently work together on truancy sweeps in shopping centre, parkes and high streets. Penalty Notices: Parents may receive a Penalty Notice - costing them £50 or £100 - whether they know that their child is truanting or not.