Out of term holidays

[mako]

Does anyone know if anyone from any local schools has been fined for taking holidays during term time?

[pripolla]

I got a letter from my daughter's school saying that fines will be enforced from September.

[david_carnell]

How can they enforce that?

I mean, what would happen if you just refused to pay?

Would they then attempt to suspend your child? I'd like to see that stand up in court.

[sunbob]

As I understand it the enforcement isn't about the child, it's a case of criminalising the parent. With a fine or various 'orders' (community, parenting etc) leading up to prosecution. https://www.gov.uk/school-attendance-absence/legal-action-to-enforce-school-attendance

[david_carnell]

The prosecution would have to

a) be in the public interest and

b) be likely to secure a conviction

I'd think parents of successful and bright children wouldn't have much difficulty in getting that thrown out of court. I think there is an ongoing legal battle on just this issue at the moment. It could set a very interesting precedent.