Schoolverzuim.

If a child is not at school when attendance is required, this is called school absence. This can include being late, skipping classes, or illness. If your child cannot go to school, you must report this as a parent. How do you report your child's school absence? What happens if your child goes to school without permission?

What is disallowed absence? 

If your child is not at school and there is no good reason, this is disallowed absence that breaks the law. The most known example is skipping classes. Luxury absence also counts as disallowed absence. 

Consequences of skipping classes and disallowed absence

If your child is absent without permission, outside school holidays and days off, the school will contact you. Together, you look for ways to make sure your child stops missing school.  

The school will follow its own rules. At many schools, your child must come to school early in the morning as a punishment for skipping classes. 

Consequences of frequent disallowed school absence

If your child is absent often, the school reports it to the attendance officer. This happens if your child is absent for 16 hours or more in four consecutive school weeks. The attendance officer will talk to you and your child to stop or reduce absence. The officer can also get help for you and your family.  

If the absence continues, the attendance officer can take stricter steps. As a parent, you can get a fine and in some cases a criminal case.  

Children aged 12 and over are also held responsible for absence. Your child may get a Halt process, a fine, or community service.  

Absence caused by (not) tailored education or unsafe situations

Absence can also happen because of problems at school. For example, not offering tailored education or an unsafe situation.  

This absence happens because these children feel unsafe or sick at school. Some children then stay at home completely. 

Sometimes schools see this absence as disallowed and attendance officers act strictly, even though parents are not to blame for the absence. Are you dealing with this? Contact our advice point.