Can a child leave school early for a holiday, and what fines apply in England?

Katerina Galkina · EN · 07/10/2026

In England, an ordinary term-time holiday, including leaving a few days before the school holidays, is generally not an exceptional circumstance. Seek permission from the school in advance; having already bought tickets does not replace permission. GOV.UK: attendance and absence ↗.

Check the school's own calendar first

Use the dates published by your child's school, as holidays and inset days may vary. Read its attendance policy and find the leave-of-absence form. Do not calculate a supposedly safe number of missed days from another family's experience: decisions depend on circumstances and the applicable rules.

For an exceptional event, explain the reason, dates and necessary length of absence. Ask who decides, what evidence is needed and when a response is likely. Apply before booking non-refundable travel. Requests are considered individually, so a verbal suggestion that permission is usually given is not enough. GOV.UK: permission for absence ↗.

Keep the decision and agree the return date

Retain written approval or refusal. If permission is granted, check exactly which dates it covers. Tell the school promptly if circumstances change and your child will return late. Leave a contact number with the school and ask about schoolwork if the school offers it.

If the request is refused, change the travel dates or discuss any relevant exceptional circumstances again. Describing a holiday as illness prevents the school from keeping an accurate account of the child's situation and is not a sound solution.

Understand the financial consequences

The council can issue each parent an £80 fine, increasing to £160 if unpaid within 21 days. A second fine for the same child within three years is £160. Each parent can receive no more than two such fines in that period; subsequent cases may proceed to court. The notice is not a single payment covering the whole family. Check its basis, payment recipient and deadlines. GOV.UK: legal action and fines ↗.

Paying a fine does not authorise the absence or purchase permission for a future holiday.

Seek help when attendance itself is difficult

If illness, anxiety, bullying or a family crisis is causing absence, request a meeting with the attendance lead, class teacher or pastoral team. Discuss support and a return plan as well as the attendance figure. The school and council can help identify barriers. GOV.UK: help with attendance ↗.

This article covers England; procedures elsewhere in the UK differ. Checked on 7 October 2026.