Castle Community College has this afternoon announced it will be cracking down on unauthorised absences including persistent lateness, with fines, as of September.

In a letter sent home to parents and guardians, interim principal Jane Hadlow explained that following a decision taken by the full governing body at a recent meeting, the school will be implementing penalty notices, for as much as £120, for unauthorised absences.

The crackdown is part of the school’s continuing drive to improve its standards after it was placed in special measures by Ofsted in 2014.

The £120 fine, or £60 if paid within 21 days, will be issued when a student accrues 10 or more sessions, or five days, of unauthorised absence in a term.

Truancy, parentally-condoned absences, unauthorised leave for a family holiday and persistent lateness after the close of register are all factors which will be considered as appropriate reasons for issuing the fine.

The letter states that failure to pay the penalty may result in court proceedings. The penalty notices are issued per parent, per child.

Mrs Hadlow writes: “We consider attendance and these legal powers as very important, this is why we are bringing it to your attention.

“Please ensure that your child attends school regularly and on time, so that they can achieve best possible outcomes.”

The newsletter also reveals that 21 members of staff are leaving the school at the end of the term (Friday).