Term-time holidays: fines, rules & changes
Although tempting, taking kids out of school for a holiday could land you in hot water. Strict attendance rules mean parents risk fines and even prosecution.
The system of fines for parents was first introduced in 2013, but breaking the rules has become even more expensive and risky since August 2024.
Fines start at £80 per parent per child and double for repeat offences. A third unauthorised absence within three years can lead to prosecution.
Here’s what you need to know about the rules and changes.
What were the rules before?
In the past, headteachers could grant up to 10 days of authorised leave during term time in certain circumstances. The rules changed in 2013, with schools no longer allowed to approve term-time absence unless there were exceptional circumstances.
What changed in 2024?
In August 2024, the Government introduced stricter rules to ensure consistent enforcement of fines across England.
Before this, local councils had some discretion over when to issue fines, leading to variations in how rules were applied. Now, all councils must follow the same national policy.
The main changes include:
A fine must be issued when a child has at least five days (10 sessions) of unauthorised absence within a rolling 10-school-week period
A second unauthorised absence within three years leads to a higher fine of £160 per parent per child
A third offence within three years will result in prosecution instead of another fine
The fine is now issued automatically rather than at the school or council’s discretion
What are the current rules on term-time absence?
Parents must ensure their children attend school regularly. If a child misses school without permission, the absence is recorded as unauthorised and will lead to a fine once they reach a certain threshold.
Headteachers can only approve absences in exceptional circumstances, like a family bereavement or serious illness.
How much are the fines for taking a child out of school?
As of August 2024, the fines are:
First offence: £80 per parent per child if paid within 21 days, rising to £160 if paid between 22 and 28 days
Second offence (within three years): £160 per parent per child, payable within 28 days
Third offence (within three years): Prosecution instead of another automatic fine. This could lead to a fine of up to £2,500, a parenting order or even a short prison sentence
Before August 2024, fines were £60 if paid within 21 days and £120 if paid between 22 and 28 days.
Can I be fined for taking my child on holiday for three days?
Not necessarily. Local authorities can decide whether to issue a fine for shorter absences, and enforcement can vary. But, there is no room for discretion when the 10-session threshold is reached.
Fines are automatically issued when a child has at least five days (10 sessions) of unauthorised absence within a rolling 10-school-week period.
Even if it doesn't lead to a fine, schools still frown upon unauthorised absences, even short ones.
Do both parents get fined if separated?
Yes. The fine applies per parent per child, so both parents can be fined separately, even if they live apart. But, if only one parent has legal responsibility for the child’s education, they may be the only one fined.
What is an exceptional circumstance for school absence?
Exceptional circumstances are rare and looked at on a case-by-case basis. Some valid reasons might include:
The funeral of a close family member
A major medical procedure for the child or a close relative
A parent in the Armed Forces returning from duty
Participation in a national-level sports or arts competition
Holidays, no matter how educational, don’t count.
Why are the rules so strict?
The fine system continues a process that started with the Education Act 1996. While parents were always responsible for their child’s school attendance, the 1996 Act made it a legal duty.
While many parents point out the importance and value of holidays (and how expensive they are during school holidays), the Government believes attendance is key to a child's education.
A statement on Gov.co.uk reads, "Evidence shows that pupils who have good attendance enjoy better well-being and school performance than those who don't."
Do you always get fined for taking a child out of school?
Under the 2024 changes, fines are now mandatory once a child has at least five unauthorised absences within a rolling 10-school-week period. Before, some councils gave warnings first, but that’s no longer the case. But, some schools might still issue reminders before a fine is triggered.
Weighing up the risks
Taking advantage of cheaper term-time travel is tempting, but the risks have gone up with recent rule changes. If you consider taking your child out of school, check with your school first - fines can add up fast, especially for repeat offences.
Family Holiday Deals' take
While we would never advise parents to break the law, we also know how valuable family holiday time is. We understand the need for rules to ensure school attendance, but the Government should also work to reduce the cost of school holiday travel.
Many countries operate school holidays in zones, spreading them over a longer period. This helps ease supply and demand issues, helping to lower prices.
There are solutions out there that could keep children at school and help parents afford holidays.
