Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Children Not in School (Register)

16 May 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Flick Drummond Con Gillingham and Rainham

Children & Families

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Flick Drummond raised concerns about children not in school (register) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Proposes a Bill to require local authorities to maintain a register of children not in school due to severe absenteeism or being off the school roll.
  • Emphasises the need for comprehensive data to ensure these children's safety and suitable education.
  • Highlights the importance of increased oversight to protect vulnerable groups such as those eligible for free school meals or with special educational needs.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Flick Drummond Con Gillingham and Rainham

Proposes a Bill to place a duty on local authorities to maintain a register of children who are not in school due to severe absenteeism or being off the school roll. Emphasises that without comprehensive data, it is difficult to ensure these children's safety and suitable education. Argues for increased oversight to protect vulnerable groups such as those eligible for free school meals or with special educational needs.

Other contributors (1)
  • Flick Drummond Con Gillingham and Rainham

    Highlights the increase in severely absent children since schools reopened after lockdowns, reaching a record high of 140,000 in summer 2022. Notes that many have disappeared from school rolls under home education, making them out of sight for authorities. Advocates for a 'children not in school' register to track these children and ensure their welfare and education quality.

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