School attendance

You can get a fine for taking your child on holiday during term time without the school’s permission.

Local councils and schools can use legal powers if your child is missing school.

Parenting Order 

This means you have to go to parenting classes. You’ll also have to do what the Court says to improve your child’s school attendance.

Education Supervision Order

The Council can apply for an Education Supervision Order if it thinks you need help getting your child to go to school. They will do this if you don't co-operate.

A supervisor will help you get your child into education. The local council can do this instead of prosecuting you, or as well as.

School Attendance Order

You’ll get a School Attendance Order if the council thinks your child isn’t getting an education.

You have 15 days to provide evidence that you’ve registered your child with the school listed in the order. Or you can show that you’re giving them home education. You can be prosecuted or given a fine if you don’t.

Penalty notice

With the introduction of the new National Framework for Penalty Notices issued by DfE the following is now in force.  This is nationwide and also across borders if you move school or house.

Leave of absence during term time is only allowed in exceptional circumstances communicated in advance with evidence provided as soon as possible to the Headteacher.

First offence

The first time a penalty notice is issued for unauthorised term time leave or irregular attendance the amount will be £80 per parent per child paid within 21 days.

Increased to £160 per parent per child if paid within 28 days.

Second offence

Within 3 years of the first offence the second time a penalty notice is issued for unauthorised term time leave or irregular attendance will be £160 per parent per child paid within 28 days.  No reduction for early payment.

Third offence onwards (within a three year period)

The third time an offence is committed for unauthorised term time leave or irregular attendance a penalty notice will not be issued, and the case will be presented straight to the Magistrates’ Court.  Fines can be up to £2,500 per parent, per child.  Cases found to be guilty can show as a criminal record and also on the parent’s future DBS certificates due to failure to safeguard a child’s education.

Please note:

• Penalty notices will be considered for any 10 sessions of unauthorised absence in 10 school weeks.
• 5 Consecutive days of term time leave can trigger a Penalty Notice.
• Please ensure you communicate with your child’s school.