Children Missing from Education (CME)

Children missing from education are children of compulsory school age who are not registered pupils at a school and are not receiving suitable education otherwise than at school.

Effective information sharing between parents, schools and local authorities is critical to ensuring that all children of compulsory school age are safe and receiving suitable education.

We have a legal duty to identify Children Missing from Education (CME) and to make sure they return to education wherever possible. Read the CME statutory guidance.

Refer a child

A Children Missing from Education (CME) referral form can be completed by a school after a maximum 10 days’ absence through a secure email address: CME@coventry.gov.uk.

Anyone with a concern that a child is missing from education can make a referral to the Access to Education Team (EMAS).

If you have submitted a CME referral form, please consult us before removing a pupil from the school register.

For urgent concerns about a child’s safety or wellbeing, which requires immediate action, please call the Coventry City Council MASH Team on 02476 788555 or email on mash@coventry.gov.uk.