The Department for Education (DfE) has published new guidance for schools in England, confirming that term-time absences for birthdays should not be authorised, as data shows absence rates are on average 40% higher on pupils' birthdays. The guide, released on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, applies to primary, secondary, and special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schools and sets out how schools should communicate with parents about attendance.
Guidance details and legal reminders
The document, titled “Guide for schools on communicating with parents about attendance,” includes the DfE's “guiding principles,” messaging tips and methods, a communications checklist, and templates for schools. It also reminds schools of “formal processes” and “legal” rules, including when enforcement and action must be taken. The DfE states the guidance is for primary, secondary, and SEND schools.
Sharing whole-school or start-of-term communication examples, the DfE says these should be “warm,” “invitational,” “inclusive,” and “lead with the child.” Key messages should include that school is more than schoolwork, what school offers this term, named contacts, and an invitation to work together on attendance. The guidance advises schools to avoid blaming parents and being too instructive.
Birthday absence and celebration advice
On the specific issue of birthdays, the DfE states: “Across all pupils, overall absence rates are on average 40% higher on birthdays.” It advises schools to “promote a culture of belonging by recognising and celebrating birthdays within the school day whilst remaining mindful that not all pupils will want the same level of public recognition and celebration.”
The DfE recommends: “Include all staff in this by sharing information so that pupils can be acknowledged by them across the school such as in their form groups or at the school gate.” It also suggests: “Consider small incentives or gestures to positively reinforce attendance on birthdays, as part of wider efforts to build strong relationships and make school an engaging place to be (e.g. passes to skip lunch queues).”
Tailored messages for different school types
For primary schools, the DfE gives an example message: “This term, we will be helping children grow friendships and confidence through weekly team projects. If mornings are tricky, speak to [name], our Family Support Lead, who can suggest small changes that might help.”
For secondary schools, the guidance tailors the message: “Being in school helps students keep on top of their learning, build their confidence and establish relationships that matter. For Years 10 and 11, being in school every day supports higher achievement in exams. Contact [name], our Attendance Lead, for tips on getting into good school habits.”
For SEND schools, the DfE example states: “We know every child’s route to belonging is different. If your child needs adjustments to help them feel safe and ready to learn, contact our SENCO [name], to make a plan together.”
The new guidance takes effect from September 2026, reinforcing the DfE's position that term-time leave for birthdays should not be granted, and that schools should instead celebrate within the school day to reduce absence rates.
