Overview
This guide is for parents of children who live in Essex. Here you'll find information on school attendance and absence, and who to contact if you have questions.
For all children to gain the greatest benefit from their education it is vital that they attend regularly and be at school, on time, every day that the school is open unless the reason for the absence is unavoidable. Any absence affects the pattern of a child’s schooling and regular absence will seriously affect their learning. You can check your school's attendance policy on their website.
Our responsibility
Although schools are best placed to provide education for the children and young people of Essex, sometimes there are situations where a child may need additional support above that available from the school. In these situations, we, as the local authority have a duty under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996.
We work together with schools following guidance from the Department for Education.
This guide is designed to help you find the right team who can support you if you feel we have a duty under this legislation.