KIDS who wag school are under the microscope of Tamworth's crime prevention group.
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The issue was raised last year at an Oxley police engagement day, after numerous students were caught on the streets during school hours.
Without their education, the truants are destined for a life on welfare, Tamworth Crime Prevention Working Group chairman Russell Webb said.
"We do have a problem with our education levels in this region, compacted by the fact we have these kids who aren't going to school - some don't go at all," he said.
A special meeting was held with the working group and police on Wednesday, and Mr Webb hopes the next one in four weeks will be attended by social services.
The issue only accounts for 5 per cent of total absences Department of Education spokesman said.
"In the Peel Network attendance is around the state average," he said.
"Schools monitor school attendance and where there are concerns, implement strategies to improve a student’s attendance at school."
Where there are persistent ongoing attendance issues the department can seek a Compulsory School Order through the Children's Court.
In more than 80 per cent of those cases the matter isn't referred back for further action.
Parents have a responsibility to ensure children go to school, the spokesman said.
"Most students who are absent from school have satisfactory explanations such as medical reasons or unavoidable family circumstances," he said.
"Of the small percentage of unacceptable absences, the majority are parent-condoned absences."
Where school strategies aren't successful, home school liaison officers and Aboriginal student liaison officers work with public schools.
It's an area where the Tamworth Crime Prevention Working Group hopes to work with the Department of Education, Mr Webb said.
"There's a whole range of reasons why it’s happening, kids are not wanting to go to school and getting away with it, some families are not forcing their kids to go to school," he said.
"Parenting responsibilities there not being met. I also know a lot of kids experience bullying at school and unwanted behaviour at school."
Parents can look at the individual results for their school's attendance on the MySchool report.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
