Parental Responsibilities

The Law

The legal responsibilities of parents and carers are clearly established in section 7 of the 1996 Education Act, which states:

"The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable;

a)  to his age, ability and aptitude and

b)  to any special educational needs he may have, either by regular attendance at school, or otherwise."

Section 437 to 443 of the Education Act 1996 places a duty on the Local Authority to take action if it appears that a child / young person is not receiving a "suitable education".

"If it appears that the child / young person is not receiving suitable education, either by regular attendance at school, or otherwise,…[the local education authority] shall serve a notice, in writing, on the parent requiring him to satisfy…..that the child is receiving such education"