Two sets of parents have been convicted of failing to ensure their children regularly attended classes at a Fenland secondary school.

The prosecutions were brought by Cambridgeshire County Council and heard at King’s Lynn Magistrates’ Court.

Neither the pupils, of Thomas Clarkson Academy in Wisbech, nor their parents can be named for legal reasons.

The first pair failed to attend court but were convicted in their absence. Each was fined £400 with £150 costs and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £40.

The second pair did not attend court either, but were found guilty. Each was fined £150 with £75 costs and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £20.

Lesley High, Cambridgeshire County Council’s education welfare officer, said: “This is a firm stance taken by the court. It sends out a very clear message that it is unacceptable for a child to miss school without good reason.

“Children and young people miss out on vital learning at a particularly important stage of their lives.

“There is help and support available from schools and the locality teams for parents to access if they are having difficulties getting their child or children to school.”