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 au?thorities– 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 unauthor?ised 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.)