Children Missing Education
According to the Department for Education (DfE), the definition of a child missing education (CME) is "Children of compulsory school age who are not registered pupils at a school and are not receiving suitable education otherwise than at a school."
The definition above includes children with Special Educational Needs (SEND) and children with an EHCP.
These children may be at a greater risk of harm.
Schools have a responsibility to investigate pupils whose whereabouts are unknown as part of their safeguarding duties. If the school or educational establishment is unable to locate the pupil after reasonable checks, they can refer to the Education Welfare Service for further investigations.
If you are a professional or member of the public concerned about a child you think is not in education, follow the link below for information about Children Missing Education, School Attendance and Absence.
Report a child missing education
Please note this page is not for general attendance or welfare queries.