Taking time off school without permission

Part of: School attendance and absence

Recording unauthorised absences

Your child’s absence is recorded as unauthorised if they:

  • take holidays during term time without permission
  • are given time off, but come back later than agreed

Unauthorised absences may mean:

  • your child loses their school place
  • you're given a fixed penalty notice
  • you're subject to legal action that could result in a fine of up to £2,500 per child

Regular absences from school

If your child takes too much time off without good reason, the school will contact you. They will work with you to reduce the number of days your child is not at school.