Every Child’s Right to Education
Parents have a legal duty to ensure their child receives a suitable full-time education. This applies whether a child attends school, receives education at home, or accesses another appropriate form of education.
Where a local authority believes a child of compulsory school age is not receiving a suitable education, it has a legal responsibility to investigate and, where necessary, take action to secure that education.
What is a School Attendance Order?
A School Attendance Order (SAO) is a legal notice requiring a parent to register their child at a named school.
An SAO may be issued when:
- A child is of compulsory school age.
- The local authority believes the child is not receiving a suitable full-time education.
- Parents are unable to satisfy the local authority that appropriate education is taking place.
- The local authority considers that school attendance is necessary.
Failure to comply with a School Attendance Order may result in legal proceedings.
What is a Suitable Education?
Education should be:
- Full-time: Education should occupy a significant proportion of a child’s week, comparable to the education normally provided in school.
- Efficient: The education should achieve what it is intended to achieve and support the child’s learning and development.
- Suitable: The education must:
- Be appropriate to the child’s age, ability and aptitude.
- Take account of any special educational needs.
- Enable the child to make appropriate educational progress.
Information for Parents and Carers
Guidance for parents includes:
- Understanding the School Attendance Order process
- Responding to enquiries about your child’s education
- Frequently Asked Questions
Find out more about School Attendance Orders for Parents
Information for Schools and Professionals
Guidance for schools includes:
- Referrals and Children Missing Education
- Information sharing and evidence
- Supporting families through the SAO process
Find out more about School Attendance Orders for Schools
Compulsory School Age
Children become of compulsory school age on the prescribed date following their fifth birthday and must receive suitable full-time education until school leaving age.