Parents in the West Midlands have hit out at a new school attendance rule that could see families fined up to £2,500 or even face a custodial sentence for taking children on holiday during term time. The regulation, which takes effect from September 1, requires schools to consider fines if a child records five or more unauthorised absences, including family holidays.
The change has sparked frustration among parents, with one saying they "couldn't care less" about the rule and another insisting that "family time is just as important as school time". The fines start at £80 if settled within 21 days, rising to £160 if not paid within a month. If a parent receives the same fine within a three-year period, the amount increases to £160.
Fines and Prosecution Under New Rules
Under the new measures, repeated unauthorised absences after a fine has been issued could lead to prosecution. This carries a maximum penalty of £2,500 or a custodial sentence of up to three months. The rules are expected to be accompanied by new attendance targets introduced this September by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
The announcement has drawn a strong reaction from parents in the region. Hayley Louise said: "Family time is just as important as school time. They should just bring back the holiday forms we had to fill in when I was a kid. If attendance is fine there shouldn’t be a problem taking your own child out of school."
Parents Voice Opposition
Tammy Simmons wrote: "This is the reason more people are home educating their own children. These rules are ridiculous." Neil Hayward added: "Rather than punishing parents for taking their children on holiday, why not come up with a solution that helps them do so."
Wayne Birch commented: "Objectively they will learn far more from a holiday than in a classroom." Brenda Smith posted: "Saying possible custodial sentence. Family time is priceless." Farrah Yasmin Bozward said: "They are OUR children. The system is a joke." And Carl Simmons posted: "Couldn’t care less. We will be going on holiday when I say."
Impact on Families
The new rules mean families planning term-time holidays from September must weigh the risk of fines and potential prosecution. For those who repeatedly take children out of school without authorisation, the financial and legal consequences could be severe. The introduction of attendance targets suggests a tighter approach to school attendance across the country, with parents urged to plan holidays within school breaks to avoid penalties.
