Fines for Parents Taking Children Out of School During Term-Time

If you’re considering taking your child out of school for a family holiday or other reasons during term-time, it’s important to be aware of the rules around absences and the potential consequences. Since changes were introduced in 2013, taking children out of school without permission can result in fines. The issue of term-time absence and the associated penalties for parents has been an ongoing point of discussion, and understanding the current regulations is crucial for avoiding fines. In this article, we’ll explain the rules, what qualifies as an exceptional circumstance, and what you need to do if you need to take your child out of school.

Why Are Fines Imposed for Term-Time Absences?

In the UK, it’s a legal requirement for children of school age to attend school regularly. While parents used to be able to request time off for family holidays, the rules changed in 2013. Now, schools are only allowed to authorise absences in exceptional circumstances. This means that if parents take their child out of school for a family holiday during term-time, they could be fined, unless there is a valid reason.

The government’s stance on term-time absences is clear: regular school attendance is critical for a child’s learning and overall academic success. Missing school—even for what seems like a good reason—can impact a student’s progress, which is why the law is strict about limiting unnecessary absences.

What Are the Rules Around School Absences?

Currently, if a child misses more than five school days without the school’s permission, parents could face a fine. The penalty is usually £60 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days. If the fine isn’t paid on time, the amount can rise to £120. Fines can be issued for each child, meaning parents of multiple children could face multiple fines if each child is taken out of school without approval.

If parents don’t pay the fine, they could face legal consequences, which could result in a criminal record. Although many parents may feel this is an unfair penalty for a family holiday, it’s important to remember that these fines are in place to ensure children are receiving the education they are entitled to.

What Qualifies as an Exceptional Circumstance?

So, when can parents take their child out of school during term-time without a fine? Schools can authorise absences only in exceptional circumstances. While the law doesn’t give a detailed list of what qualifies as exceptional, it generally refers to situations that are unusual or urgent, such as the death of a close relative or an unavoidable family emergency.

In most cases, taking a child on a holiday during term-time won’t qualify as an exceptional circumstance. Even if it’s a special family event, it’s unlikely that the school will approve the absence. This is especially true for the majority of state schools and academies, which are generally very strict about attendance.

What Should Parents Do If They Need to Take Their Child Out of School?

If you do need to take your child out of school for any reason, it’s important to communicate with the school well in advance. Schools generally require parents to submit a formal request explaining the reason for the absence. The school will then decide whether or not to approve the absence based on their policy and the reason you’ve given.

If the request is denied, parents should be aware that taking the child out of school anyway could result in a fine. Before making any decisions, it’s important to consider the consequences and whether it’s worth the potential penalty.

Are There Any Exceptions?

There are a few situations where schools may be more flexible about granting absences. For example, if your child is ill, or if there are extraordinary circumstances like a close family member being seriously ill, schools may make exceptions. But it’s important to remember that these cases are rare and will likely require documentation or proof.

Additionally, if a child has generally good attendance and is an outstanding student, schools may be more understanding when it comes to granting leave for genuine reasons. However, in most cases, parents will need to show that the absence is truly exceptional.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay the Fine?

If parents do not pay the fine within 21 days, the fine may increase to £120. If this payment is also ignored, it can result in legal action, which could eventually lead to a criminal record and even court proceedings. This may seem like a harsh penalty for taking a child on holiday, but it’s important to follow the rules to avoid escalation.

How Can Parents Avoid Fines?

The best way to avoid fines is to plan family holidays during school holidays, as these periods are set aside for breaks and are therefore free from penalties. If it’s absolutely unavoidable to take your child out during term-time, be proactive and talk to the school as early as possible. Let them know the reason for the absence and request permission to ensure the time off is officially approved.

Being transparent with the school about the reason for the absence and ensuring that the request is submitted in advance can go a long way in getting approval. It also helps to maintain open communication with the school to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that any issues with attendance are addressed before they become a problem.

Final Thoughts

While it might feel unfair at times, the rules around taking children out of school during term-time are in place to support the importance of regular attendance and consistent learning. Parents should be aware of the potential consequences of taking their child out of school without permission, and always check with the school before making plans.

By respecting school attendance policies, communicating openly with schools, and considering alternatives to term-time holidays, parents can avoid fines and help ensure that their children receive the best possible education. After all, staying in school and maintaining regular attendance plays a key role in academic success and overall development.