Haverfordwest parent found guilty of school attendance failings

Na hearing this week at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court, a local parent was found guilty of failing to ensure their child’s regular attendance at school.

The woman, who we can not name, faced charges relating to her 14-year-old’s sporadic attendance at a Pembrokeshire school between June and November of 2023.

According to court documents, this lack of regular attendance violated sections 444(1) and (8) of the Education Act 1996, leading to a guilty verdict on March 21, 2024.

As a consequence of the findings, the woman has been conditionally discharged for 18 months.

She is mandated to comply with a parenting order for 12 months, which includes ensuring her child’s punctual and regular school attendance, communicating with the school regarding any absences, responding to school communications, and attending meetings to discuss the child’s progress.

Additionally, the court imposed financial penalties, ordering her to pay a surcharge to fund victim services amounting to £26, alongside court costs of £100.

A collection order was also made to facilitate the deduction of these costs from benefits, with a stipulated payment plan of £24 per month starting April 18, 2024.

In alignment with the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, the court issued directions to protect the identity of the youth involved, prohibiting any publication that could identify them, including their name, address, and school until they reach the age of 18.

This case underscores the legal responsibilities parents have towards ensuring their children’s education and the consequences of failing to meet these obligations.