Parents across the UK have been cautioned that they could face fines of up to £2,500 for persistently taking their children out of school without permission. In the last academic year alone, an
astonishing 443,000 penalties were issued to families who took their children on unauthorised term-time holidays. This marks a dramatic 53% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.
The surge in fines coincides with new government measures aimed at curbing school absences. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced plans to increase financial penalties for parents who fail to ensure their children attend school regularly. Under the revised system, local councils have the authority to impose escalating fines and other legal consequences.
Increased Penalties for School Absences
Previously, parents faced an initial fine of £60 for unauthorised absences, rising to £120 if unpaid within 21 days. However, starting from the 2024/25 academic year, the fine has been increased to £80, doubling to £160 if not settled promptly. Additionally, parents will now be limited to two fines within a three-year period, with the second fine automatically set at £160.
For repeat offenses, parents could find themselves in court, facing significantly steeper penalties. If a child is absent without a valid reason three or more times within three years, parents may be fined up to £2,500, given a community order, or even sentenced to up to three months in jail.
Additional legal measures
Beyond financial penalties, schools and local authorities have a range of enforcement measures at their disposal. These include:
Parenting Orders – Parents may be required to attend educational courses to improve their child’s school attendance.
Education Supervision Orders – A designated supervisor may be appointed to assist parents in ensuring their child attends school regularly.
School Attendance Orders – If a child is not enrolled in a school or receiving proper home education, parents will have 15 days to provide proof of suitable education arrangements. Failure to comply could lead to prosecution.
A government focus on attendance
Bridget Phillipson, who assumed her role as Education Secretary in July, has made tackling school absenteeism a key priority. She has emphasized the importance of a collective effort to address the issue, stating:
"Tackling the epidemic of school absence is everyone’s responsibility – government, schools, parents, and children – we need a national effort to get young people back in the classroom."
It’s important to note that attendance policies and legal repercussions differ across the UK, with separate regulations in place for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Parents can find more information on their specific responsibilities by visiting the gov.uk website. Photo by Lucélia Ribeiro, Wikimedia commons.