A Parenting Contract is a voluntary written agreement between parents, schools and, where appropriate, the Local Authority. It is designed to support improvements in school attendance by identifying barriers to attendance and agreeing actions to help secure regular attendance.
Parenting Contracts form part of Sutton’s Attendance Graduated Response and provide an opportunity for families, schools and professionals to work together to address attendance concerns through a supportive and collaborative approach.
Parenting Contracts are not a legal sanction and parents are not required to enter into one. However, they can help establish clear expectations, identify appropriate support and promote positive engagement with education.
Further Guidance
For Schools
Information for schools on when Parenting Contracts may be used, how they form part of the Attendance Graduated Response, and the evidence and processes involved.
→ Parenting Orders: Guidance for Schools
For Parents
Information for parents on what a Parenting Contract is, what to expect if one is offered, and the support available to help improve attendance.
→ Parenting Orders: Information for Parents