Greenhead High School has fired a warning to parents and pupils after Government figures placed it on a list for having the most prolific truants.

The school is one of nine in the district being targeted as part of a national crackdown, which could see parents fast-tracked to court if they fail to keep their children in school.

If parents don't track their child's attendance they could face prosecution.

The school is making parents aware that if their children are taken out on unauthorised absence for longer than ten days in any academic year, they may find they no longer have a place at the school on return.

Marilyn Boyd -- director of the main school -- who monitors school attendance, said: "Although we have been identified as one of these schools, Greenhead has always worked closely with the Local Education Authority (LEA) to improve attendance rates. We recognise that only through sustained regular attendance will students attain their full potential.

"The fast track to attendance scheme is being used. All LEAs now have the authority to fine parents. It's not that we don't have the systems in place, a lot of it is because of extended leave. If parents take students out of school, that affects the figures and that has to be considered."

She added: "If parents do decide to take their children abroad for longer, on their return they could find that the child no longer has a place in school.

"They cannot automatically assume that place will be kept open for them."

The Department of Education and Skills has identified around 200 schools across the country, with a combined total of 8,000 pupils, which have the nation's worst attendance records. Greenhead High School was identified in September and went through a consultation period to complete a school report and framework, which was completed in February.

The fast track to attendance scheme requires the school to identify the worst truants, and if attendance fails to improve within 12 weeks their parents will face prosecution.

Head teacher Trish McCarthy said: "We take absence from school, whether authorised or not, as a very serious matter. Students need to attend lessons in order to get the full benefit of the education system we offer, and we want all students to do the best they can."

The school has appointed three behaviour and attendance managers who monitor attendance alongside Education Bradford educational social workers. An electronic register system is also in place -- which can immediately identify truant pupils.