Jon Platt interview outside Supreme Court

The video discusses the issue of unauthorized school absences in England and Wales, highlighting the large number of absences reported as unauthorized due to lack of proof of illness. It addresses the challenges parents face in obtaining GP letters to excuse absences and the policy of the British Medical Association on this matter. The speaker also shares personal experiences with legal and financial challenges related to school absence policies, including potential costs and the Department for Education's stance on legal costs.

What was the total number of unauthorized absences recorded in England and Wales during the 2015-2016 academic year?

• 15.3 million

• 9.7 million

• 12.8 million

• 10.5 million

What is one reason schools report illnesses as unauthorized absences?

• They receive funding based on absence rates.

• They require proof of illness from parents.

• They want to reduce their absence statistics.

• They aim to improve student health.

Why do most GPs not provide sick notes for schoolchildren?

• It is against school policy.

• It would overwhelm GP surgeries.

• It is not covered by health insurance.

• Parents are responsible for excusing absences.

What recent agreement was made with the Department for Education regarding legal costs?

• They will reduce the legal costs by half.

• They will cover all legal expenses.

• They will not seek costs if the case is lost.

• They will provide financial aid for legal fees.

What has been the personal impact of the legal proceedings on the individual involved?

• It has been financially beneficial.

• It has been a minor inconvenience.

• It has improved their public image.

• It has been very stressful and time-consuming.