Children Missing from Education (CME) refers to children and young people of compulsory school age who are not on a school roll and are not receiving suitable education through alternative means such as home education, private provision, or other arrangements. In Scotland, this definition is set out in national guidance and includes children who may be enrolled but have not attended school for a up to four weeks, particularly where there are welfare concerns.  

Dumfries and Galloway Council has a statutory responsibility, under the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 and the Standards in Scotland’s Schools etc. Act 2000, to ensure that every child has access to an efficient and suitable education. Where a child is identified as missing from education, the Council will work in partnership with families, schools and other agencies to establish the child’s whereabouts, assess any risks, and support a return to appropriate education as quickly as possible. The safety and wellbeing of the child is always the priority.

It is important to recognise that not all children who are out of school are missing education.  Parents in Scotland have a legal duty to provide an education for their child, either by sending them to school or by other means, including elective home education. Where home education is suitable and meets the child’s age, ability and needs, the child is not considered to be missing from education. Parents wishing to withdraw a child from a local authority school must seek consent, which should not be unreasonably withheld.

Dumfries and Galloway Council is committed to working collaboratively with families to ensure all children receive their entitlement to education, while respecting the rights of parents who choose home education. Where concerns arise that a child may not be receiving a suitable education, or where a child’s whereabouts are unknown, the Council will take appropriate action in line with national guidance to safeguard and support the child.