To complete a leave of absence during term time, please complete the application form here
FAQ’s:
What does the law say about leave of absence in term time?
It says the Head Teachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time unless there are exceptional circumstances. Head Teachers should determine the number of days a child can be away from school if the leave is granted.
If my child’s school refuses my term time leave of absence request, will i receive a Fixed Penalty Notice and can I be prosecuted?
Durham County Council’s Fixed Penalty Notice Protocol suggests that regular and punctual attendance at school is both a legal requirement and essential for pupils to maximise their educational opportunities.
Circumstances where a Penalty Notice might be issued include unauthorised leave of absence in term time, or other parentally condoned absence where the absence amounts to five school days or more in a minimum ten rolling school week period. You can be prosecuted if you receive a fixed penalty notice and it is not paid.
Under the Education Act 1996, parents commit an offence if they fail to ensure their child’s regular school attendance. Taking a child out of school for a leave of absence without permission, and where absence amounts to five school days or more of unauthorised absence in a minimum ten week rolling term is viewed as failing to ensure your child’s regular attendance at school.
Payment of a Penalty Notice, where offered, is an alternative to prosecution. If unpaid, prosecution for the Education Act offence may therefore ensue. A Fixed Penalty Notice will be issued to each person with parental responsibility for the child / children who is deemed liable for the offence / offences.