School fines

When a child can miss school

Children of school age must attend regularly and on time during term time.

Your child can only miss school if:

  • they are too ill
  • the school has authorised the absence

You must get permission from the headteacher if you are planning to take your child out of school during term time.

Your child may be allowed to miss school for:

  • doctor, hospital or dental appointments
  • a death in the family or funeral
  • religious observation

Headteachers can only permit leave for a holiday in term time where there are exceptional circumstances.

If you do not get permission and you take your child out of school, you may get a fine.