25 October 2024
There are circumstances where a child can be absent from school, such as illness or with advance permission from the school. New statutory guidance from the Department for Education aims to improve school attendance which has been implemented. Parents can request permission from the headteacher for authorised absences, such as attending special events like weddings or funerals, and it is likely such a request will be granted.
When it comes to taking holidays during term time, parents may seek authorisation from the head teacher. If the absence is not authorised or if permission was not obtained, it will be considered unauthorised, potentially leading to fines if the absence exceeds five days within a ten-school-week period.
The consequences of persistent unauthorised absences include fines, prosecution, parenting orders, education supervision orders, and school attendance orders. Fines will be levied on each parent. Up until 18 August 2024 the fine is £60, rising to £120 if the parent does not settle the fine within twenty-eight days. From 19 August 2024, the fine increases to £80 and £160 where the parent does not pay the fine within twenty-eight days. It is crucial for parents to follow the guidelines and seek authorisation before planning a holiday during term time to avoid penalties.
While taking children out of school for holidays can be tempting, it's essential to adhere to the rules set by the school. Seeking permission from the head teacher is key to avoiding fines and other legal actions. Planning vacations during school holidays might be the best choice to ensure a stress-free break for everyone involved.
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