On 8 September 2025, the Department for Education (DfE) published an updated version of the Children Missing Education Statutory Guidance for schools in England. This guidance applies to all academy trusts and governing bodies, and they are required to take notice of it.

The guidance defines children missing education (CME) as those of compulsory school age who are either not registered at a school or not otherwise receiving a suitable education, such as through approved alternative provision. Importantly, the definition does not include children who:

• Are awaiting a confirmed school place but continue in education elsewhere;
• Are receiving elective home education, provided it is deemed suitable; or
• Have attendance concerns but retain an existing school place.