Taking holidays in term time

Improving school attendance is a key priority for all schools across Essex. Missing school can negatively impact a pupil’s progress and stop them from reaching their true academic potential.

If you feel that there are exceptional circumstances, you should make an application to your child's school. You must get permission from the headteacher if you want to take your child out of school during term time.

You could be fined or face legal action for taking your child out of school during term time without the school’s permission.

Note: Legal action may be taken if a family goes on holiday during term time without the school's permission. Instead of a penalty notice, the case could go directly to the Magistrates for their consideration in court. If found guilty by the Magistrates, parents could each face a fine of up to £2,500 and/or 3 months imprisonment.