School absence fines: When a parent could receive a fine and how much fines have risen by explained in video

According to a Parentkind survey, nearly three in five parents (57%) have or would consider their child missing school for a day or more for a term-time holiday.

The survey was conducted in April and May - before the increase in school absence fines came into effect.

When did the school absence fines rise take effect?

It used to be up to the local council on whether to issue a fine for missed school time. However, with the government’s new national framework, all schools are now required to consider a fine when a child has missed 10 or more sessions (five days) for unauthorised reasons.

Since September 2024, if a child misses five school days, parents may now have to pay an increased fine.

How much have school absence fines gone up by?

School absence fines have risen by £20 from £60 to £80 if paid within 21 days. If the fine has not been paid within the 21 days, it will double to £160, rising by £40 from £120.

How many school absence fines can parents receive before other action is considered?

A parent will receive up to two fines within a three-year period, before a parenting order or prosecution may be considered.

A fine of up to £2,500 could be issued if a parent has to go to court and is prosecuted for their child missing school.