Truancy has soared in Essex, but the statistics, perhaps, owe less to a mass bunk-off than to a new record-keeping regime.

Schools are abiding by new Government legislation that redefines truancy.

The term now embraces children who are taken out of school for holidays. It also applies to occasions where a child is off because of sickness, and a parent fails to notify the school.

The approach is tough, commendably so. Truancy still carries a burden of shame, so by using it to cover unauthorised holidays and forgetfulness, schools are sending a clear message to parents. School cannot be treated casually, or on a take-it-or-leave-it basis.

The next stage should consist of a blitz on holiday companies and website operators, so they can only accept family applications with permission from schools. If the approach remains uncompromising, truancy figures can be made to drop as fast as they have risen.