School absence fines for parents to rise by £20

The school absence fines for parents in England are set to increase by £20, according to an announcement made by the education secretary. This change is intended to discourage parents from taking unauthorised term-time holidays, which can negatively impact their children's education.

The new fines will be implemented in schools across the country and will apply to any absences taken during term time that are not authorised by the school. The maximum fine for a parent taking an unauthorised term-time holiday is currently £60, but this will increase to £80 with the new change.

The education secretary has stated that the increase in fines is necessary because many parents are still taking unauthorised term-time holidays despite the existing fines and warnings. This can lead to children missing important lessons and falling behind their peers, which can have long-term negative effects on their education.

It's worth noting that schools have the discretion to decide whether or not to impose fines for unauthorised absences, and some may choose not to enforce the new fines. However, the education secretary has encouraged schools to use the fines as a last resort and to work with parents to find alternative solutions to unauthorised absences.

Overall, the increase in school absence fines for parents is intended to promote responsible attendance and ensure that children receive the education they need to succeed.