International Student but here on a FLR(M)- reporting absences to UKBA

Since I'm attending a UK University on FLR(M), I'm still counted as an international student (though, not for long). Is there any difference between being an international student studying on a student visa to one studying here but as the spouse of a UK citizen? I have had a couple of absences this semester (all authorized), but I can't help but feel annoyed when they say they're reporting the absences to the UKBA since I'm not here on a student visa. I mean, would I still be penalized by them?

If you're on a family route visa, not turning up to class has no bearing on your status in the UK.

They can report it all they like, but nothing would come of it since you're not there on a student visa.

They can report it all they like

Actually they can't.  They have no mechanism to report anything to the UKBA about someone who they are not sponsoring under Tier 4.  I would advise you query these remarks (threats) with someone senior at the institution.  You have every right to find such remarks offensive and sinsiter.