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Holiday Requests and Leave of Absence

With effect from September 2013 Head Teachers can no longer authorise absence for holidays in term time. Amendments came into force which were imposed by the Government which state that “Head Teachers can no longer authorise term time leave, other than in exceptional circumstances". The changes were implemented with immediate effect.

It should be remembered that this is a Government led directive. Children are required to attend school for 38 weeks each year, leaving 14 weeks to attend family holidays. If you are considering leave within term time, please put the request in writing and addressed for the Attention of the Head Teacher stating the exceptional circumstances. This should be received at least one month before the date of the requested absence; earlier if possible. Leave for holidays and travel during term time will not be authorised as these do not constitute exceptional circumstances.  Please be advised further evidence may be required for any authorisation given due to exceptional circumstances.

Our decision to impose Fixed Penalty Notices (FPN) for those taking unauthorised term time leave follows these guidelines. This means that parents/carers who choose to remove their child from school for unauthorised leave will be subject to a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). The current cost of which is £60 per child per parent if paid within 21 days. The FPN rises to £120 per child per parent if paid after 21 days but up to the 28th day. If payment is not received during this period, Bromley Local Authority Education Welfare Service may proceed with legal action.