Term Time Holidays

We recognise that it is often expensive to take a holiday during school breaks and that is why some parents may ask for term-time leave for their child. However, it is important that parents carefully consider the implications of taking their child out of school during term-time.

Research suggests that children who are taken out of school may never catch up on course work they have missed. This may affect test results and can be particularly harmful if the child is studying for final year examinations. Children who struggle with English or Mathematics may also find it even harder to cope when they return to school, while younger children may find it difficult to renew friendships with their classmates.

The Law

The law states that parents / guardians do not have the automatic right to take their child out of school for holidays during term-time.

However, in exceptional circumstances schools may authorise, in advance, a request for a period of leave of up to ten days in any year. The request for leave must come from a parent / guardian with whom the child normally resides and must be for the purpose of an annual family holiday.

If however a child is away from school for more than ten days this must be recorded as unauthorised absence and could be quoted in a prosecution for poor attendance. If the child is away from school for a total of four weeks or more, the school may have to take the child off roll unless there is a good reason for the continued absence, such as illness. In these circumstances it is up to the parent / guardian to inform the school, for as once they are removed from roll there is no guarantee that the child will regain a place at the same school.

The Decision

When deciding whether to allow term time leave, consideration will be given to:

• The child’s age
• The time & duration of the leave
• The child’s record of attendance
• The child’s ability
• Previous term time leave

What you should consider

There are times during a school year when a child may experience particular problems because of term-time leave such as:

• Being close to exams or tests (e.g. Standard Attainment Test in year two, six and nine)
• During GCSE, A level and other examination courses
• During the first year at a new school
• At the beginning of a new school term

If the school refuses a request for term-time leave and the child is still taken out of school, this will be recorded as unauthorised absence and noted in the child’s Record of Achievement. For further information on term-time holidays or to request an application form please contact your child's school or the Education Welfare Service.

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