Have name changed and changed a few details so as not to identify my child.
I received a letter on first day of Easter hols so can't get clarification from school until after Easter.
Letter is a warning of a possible fine because of low attendance.
History- Child in year ten at a new school. Missed all of year nine except for 3 days in September at old school because of anxiety and mental health problems.
Child recently diagnosed with adhd. Was under camhs but discharged for not engaging. Was told on discharge that camhs would contact school and ask for them to continue being supportive child struggles to attend because of anxiety.
Attendance at 70% which I am aware is low but is fantastic compared to last year.
Child wants to be in school but struggles. The majority of the absences are due to arriving late (usually by morning break) when child has been in a state of high anxiety.
I am in constant contact with school as there are some behavioural issues because of the adhd.
Attendance concerns have not been mentioned before and I was unaware that absences have been recorded as unauthorised. School have actually been brilliant up to now and the letter was a huge shock.
No ehcp as school reluctant to apply. I am considering parental application.
Child under paediatricion for adhd there is also possible ASD and dyspraxa as camhs noted traits but no assessment planned as yet.
Child has just started adhd medication which is helping with behaviour but making no difference to the anxiety.
I have emailed school asking for a copy of attendance record. I also have an email prepared quoting guidelines under 2010 equality act and 2016 children and families act asking for reasonable adjustments to be made regarding attendance.
Is there anything else I can do. I am.hoping this will stop them issuing a fine. If they do I am stuck. I can't risk it going to court and losing as I need a dbs for work. The fact that it is a strict liability offence makes it up to me to prove my innocence beyond reasonable doubt.
If I pay the fine and attendance doesn't improve they will just prosecute again.
I don't want to de-register and home educate as childs mental health is better from being in school. Year nine was spent mostly in bed, refusing to leave the house.
Thank you for reading so far. Can anyone advise?