Parenting contracts for poor attendance

Get advice on parenting contracts, including when to use them in response to problems with behaviour or attendance, and see examples and guidance from local authorities.

Last reviewed on 30 June 2022
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 33863
Contents
  1. Use parenting contracts for misbehaviour or irregular attendance
  2. Tailor contracts to the needs of the parents
  3. Record any breaches
  4. Template contracts from LAs

Note: this article is about parenting contracts, which are not the same as parenting orders. A parenting order can only be imposed by the court and does not need parental agreement.

Use parenting contracts for misbehaviour or irregular attendance

A parenting contract is a formal written, signed agreement between parents and either the local authority (LA) or the governing board of a school, and should include:

  • A statement by the parents that they agree to comply for a specified period with the requirements set out in the contract; and
  • A statement by the LA or governing board agreeing to provide support to the parents for the purpose of complying with the contract

LAs or governing boards should fund any support