DfE guidance stresses the importance of good attendance for all
children to support their attainment, wellbeing and wider life
chances. When a child’s attendance falls below 90% this is a cause for concern for schools and local authorities– 10% absence equates to a child being absent for 1 day or more a fortnight across a full school year. DfE guidance also states that leave of absence should only be granted in exceptional circumstances, and as such holidays taken
during term time will not be authorised. If leave of absence is unauthorised by the school, the government requires the school to follow up such absences with a Penalty Notice Fine of £60 to each parent and for each child. (Collection of the fine is not administered by the school and the money collected is not given to the school.) If a parent thinks that their leave of absence request is due to exceptional circumstances, they should contact school without delay and before arrangements are entered
into or money is committed. A leave of absence request form is available from the school office or from the website