Many schools have applied the rules strictly, in part because poor attendance records are marked down by inspectors.

The pastor chastised the congregation for their lack of commitment, poor attendance at services, and a general lack of support for programs.

But his poor attendance and failure to pass his exams twice were putting his visa in jeopardy, the court was told.

Two others got the boot for poor attendance, and several were given warnings after accusations of serious wrongdoing.

Under a new scheme, 1,000 primary schools with poor attendance records will be asked to draw up a list of persistent truants.