The majority of parents say fines for unauthorised absences would not deter them from taking their children out of school for a holiday, a survey has found. Half of parents are opposed to the policy in England where fines are considered if a child misses five days of school without permission, according to a poll by Parentkind charity. The survey highlights a significant disconnect between parental attitudes and government policies on school attendance.
The survey, of nearly 5,500 parents from across the UK, found that nearly three in five (57%) parents have or would consider their child missing school for a day or more for a term-time holiday. The same proportion (57%) of parents said the risk of receiving a fine for an unauthorised term-time holiday would have no impact on their decision to take their child out of school.
Many parents are struggling to make ends meet and get children away from their screens, it is no wonder they are tempted by a term-time holiday. This sentiment reflects broader societal challenges that influence family decisions and points to the need for policies that consider parents' financial situations.
Fines for school absences have increased from £60 to £80 this academic year. However, in the context of rising living costs, these penalties might not be viewed as a deterrent but rather as a challenge parents must navigate.
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