Everything Parents Need to Know About Taking a Family Holiday During Term Time

Key Highlights :

1. Parents are responsible for making sure their child gets a full-time education that meets their needs, even if they are out of school for a family holiday.

2. If you don't get permission from the head teacher, you could be fined or prosecuted.

3. In Scotland, you may be issued with an attendance order if your child's attendance falls below 85%.

     Taking your child out of school for a family holiday during term time can be a difficult decision for parents. The UK Government guidance is clear that parents are responsible for making sure their child receives a full-time education that meets their needs. While it is possible to take a child out of school for a family holiday, it is important to understand the rules and regulations around this.

     In England and Wales, parents will need to get permission from the head teacher before taking a child out of school during term time. This permission will only be granted if there are exceptional circumstances, such as visiting a seriously ill family member or attending a funeral. It is “unlikely” that absences will be approved for a family holiday. If a parent does take their child out of school without permission, they could be issued with a £60 fine or worse. The fine can rise to £120 each if the fine is not paid within 21 days. If the fine is not paid after 28 days, the parent could be prosecuted for their child’s absence from school.

     In Scotland, parents will not face a £60 fine for taking a child out of school during term time, but may be issued with “attendance orders” which require them to explain the absence. If a reasonable excuse isn’t given, they could be taken to court and face up to one month in prison and a fine of up to £1,000. In Northern Ireland, parents could be referred to the Education Welfare Service if their child’s attendance falls below 85%. Failing to engage with the service could result in a £1,000 fine for parents.

     It is important to remember that taking a child out of school during term time could have a negative impact on their education. If you are considering taking your child out of school, it is essential to speak to your child’s head teacher and discuss the potential impact on their education.

     In conclusion, while it is possible to take a child out of school during term time for a family holiday, it is important to understand the rules and regulations around this, and to consider the potential impact on your child’s education.

     Title: Everything Parents Need to Know About Taking a Family Holiday During Term Time

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