Leave of Absence requests
Leave of Absence Requests
Term Time Holidays
We understand that family holidays are important, but UK law places restrictions on taking children out of school during term time.
Why attendance matters
Parents have a legal responsibility to make sure their child attends school regularly. This applies from the term after a child's fifth birthday until the last Friday in June of the school year in which they turn 16.
Children should only be absent from school when there is a valid reason. Headteachers can only authorise leave in exceptional circumstances, such as:
- Serious illness.
- Bereavement.
- A parent returning from active military service.
Family holidays and leisure trips are not normally considered exceptional circumstances.
What happens if my child misses school for a holiday?
If your child is absent from school without permission, you may receive a penalty notice.
Penalty notices
- First penalty notice (within a three-year period):
- £80 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days.
- Increases to £160 if paid within 28 days.
- Second penalty notice (within three years):
- £160 per parent, per child.
- No reduced early payment is available.
- Further unauthorised absences:
- A third offence within three years may result in court action instead of another fine.
- The court can impose fines of up to £2,500, a community order, or, in the most serious cases, a prison sentence of up to three months.
Each parent can receive a maximum of two penalty notices per child within a three-year period. Any further offences may be dealt with through the courts.
When is a fine issued?
School attendance is recorded in sessions, with each morning and afternoon counting as one session.
A penalty notice may be issued when a child has 10 unauthorised sessions (equivalent to five school days) within a rolling 10-week period.
Can I appeal?
There is no statutory right of appeal against a penalty notice. If a fine is not paid, the local authority may begin court proceedings.
Money collected through penalty notices helps cover the cost of administering the attendance process and supporting school attendance initiatives.
If you are unsure whether your circumstances may be considered exceptional, please contact the school before making any travel arrangements. We are always happy to discuss your situation and offer advice