Around 8000 serial truants and their parents are being targeted for fast-track prosecution under new plans expected to be announced by the Department for Education and Skills. Schlols are being asked to come up with a hit list of their worst offenders and the parents of the truants in question could face fines or court appearances.

In the worst cases, parents could face up to three months in jail if their children fail to attend school. Offenders will be given 12 weeks to improve their attendance record before harder tactics like prosecutions are considered.

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