The debate over whether parents should be allowed to take their children out of school during term time for family holidays has once again resurfaced, raising questions about fairness, affordability, and the true cost of missed education.
Under current rules in England and Wales, parents can face fines of £60 per child, per parent—doubling to £120 if unpaid within 21 days, for taking their children out of school without permission. Yet many families argue that the strict attendance policies leave them with little choice but to either miss out on a family break or face financial penalties.
Is the System Fair?
School officials and education authorities insist that regular attendance is crucial for a child’s academic development. “Every day counts,” says one headteacher. “Even short absences can lead to children falling behind in key subjects.”
But many parents feel the system lacks flexibility. With holiday prices soaring during official school breaks often doubling or even tripling, some argue that the rules disproportionately affect lower and middle income families.
“Why should we be punished for not being able to afford £4,000 during summer holidays?” asked one parent. “We’re not being irresponsible. We’re just trying to give our children memories too.”
Could Holidays Be Educational?
Some experts and campaigners say that not all time out of school is time wasted. Travel can offer cultural enrichment, life experience, and educational value beyond the classroom.
“There’s a difference between a child missing school for a shopping trip and one visiting the Colosseum in Rome,” argues education consultant Karen Willis. “We should have a system that recognises that.”
Do Fines Actually Work?
The number of fines issued for term-time absences has risen in recent years, but critics question their effectiveness. Some local authorities have even refused to enforce the penalties, calling them “counterproductive” and “unfair.”
The issue came to national attention in 2017 when a father, Jon Platt, took his legal fight to the Supreme Court after refusing to pay a fine for taking his daughter to Florida during term time. The court ruled in favour of the school, reinforcing the government’s position on attendance—but the controversy hasn’t gone away.
What’s the Solution?
Some have called for a more flexible approach, allowing a set number of discretionary days for family travel. Others believe a case-by-case review system would be fairer, balancing educational needs with family circumstances.
As the cost of living continues to squeeze household budgets, and summer holiday prices remain out of reach for many, the pressure is mounting for government and education leaders to revisit the policy.
What do you think?
Should parents be allowed to take their children out of school during term time? Or is the fine a necessary deterrent to protect children’s education?
Let us know your views in the comments or email us at Newsdesk@dorset-news.co.uk
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