Parents planning to take their kids out of school to go on holiday this year are being warned they face fines of up to £160 as part of a fresh crackdown over attendance. Parents already faced the threat of fines for unauthorised attendance but they have been increased in a bid to make more think twice.
The new warning comes as many families will be thinking about their summer holidays for 2025. Many people opt to go away during term time as holidays tend to be cheaper then, and risk the fine that comes with it.
But the financial penalty will be higher this year. Parents who defy the rules will have to fork out £80. If this is not paid within 21 days, the penalty will shoot up to £160.
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Fines were previously £60 rising to £120. The change, introduced in September, is a sign of headteachers’ and ministers’ growing frustration with absences, particularly around families choosing to go on holidays during term time.
Many parents argue they simply can’t afford to go away during the holidays, or aren’t willing to pay the extra costs in what has long been a divisive issue. Nick Drewe, a discount expert at Wethrift, said: “We’re living in particularly tough times financially, so term-time holiday deals have often been a lifeline for families who want to get away without breaking the bank.
“These new fines, however, make that option much harder for many households.” He went on: “Last-minute holidays are often cheaper as a result of travel and airline companies trying to fill their empty rooms and seats.
“It is much more cost-effective for them to make some money than no money, so most of the time customers can take advantage of last-minute discounts. When planning your next family break, consider booking it right before you plan on setting off. If you’re flexible with dates within the six-week holiday period, this can facilitate even better savings.”