Many schoolchildren are addicted to text messaging. Lots of them prefer using their mobiles to writing letters. But now a Leicestershire school is turning the tables and sending texts to parents whose children may be playing truant. King Edward VII School in Melton Mowbray has been put on a government hit list for truancy. Around ten per cent of key stage four pupils, who are aged 14-16, have attendance problems. | "If you are not in school you are not learning, which will affect your career and life chances." | | Headteacher Chris Williams |
But the new system will automatically send electronic messages to parents whose children are not in school. Deputy headteacher Tony Pinnock, who is responsible for attendance, says it is better than just sending out letters. He said: "The system will keep on going until it gets an answer from the parents. "It is also important to do this from a safety point of view - so mums and dads know their children are not in school". Headteacher Chris Williams says cutting truancy also benefits pupils. He said: "If you are not in school you are not learning, which will affect your career and life chances". | 
