Parents of persistent truants in Oxfordshire now have a stark choice -- they can make sure their child gets to school every day or they can pay a fine.

Children who bunk off lessons do not just fall behind at school, they are also more likely to get involved in crime and antisocial behaviour.

It is in everybody's interests to make sure children are in school every day and not wandering the streets.

Getting long-term truants back into school is just the first hurdle.

Without this, schools cannot begin the long process of re-engaging young people in learning and helping them achieve their potential.

Sadly, it takes the threat of a cash penalty for some parents to get the message that every child deserves an education. It is their responsibility to make sure they get it.