A MOTHER has been given a suspended prison sentence after she was convicted of failing to ensure that her children attend school for a second time.

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, failed to make sure that her sons, aged 13 and 16, went to Thomas Clarkson Academy, in Wisbech.

She was found guilty in her absence at King’s Lynn Magistrates’ Court - the second time she had been charged with such offences.

Magistrates imposed an eight-week jail term, suspended for 12 months, and ordered her to pay �150 costs.

David Gray, vice principal at Thomas Clarkson, said: “The court has taken the view that parents need to do more to make sure their children go to school and I welcome that decision.

“A good education should open up a bright and exciting future for our young people.

“Parents need to work together with schools to ensure that children attend regularly and make the most of the opportunities provided for them.”