**Avoid £160 Fines: Holidaying During Term Time Can Cost You** Parents planning to escape the UK’s winter chill may face hefty fines if they take their children on holiday during term time. The Department for Education has reiterated that schools must impose fines for unauthorised absences, particularly if a child misses 10 or more sessions, which equates to five school days. The fines are structured to encourage compliance. If parents pay within 21 days of receiving a fine, they will owe £80. However, if payment is made within 28 days, the amount doubles to £160. Notably, if parents have previously received a fine for the same child within a three-year period, the higher rate of £160 will automatically apply. Parents should be aware that exceeding two fines within a three-year span can lead to more severe consequences. This could include a parenting order or even prosecution. In cases of prosecution, parents may face fines up to £2,500 or a potential jail sentence of up to three months. Government statistics indicate that approximately 89% of unauthorised absence fines are issued due to holidays taken during term time. There are specific circumstances under which a child can be absent from school without incurring a fine. These include: - Attendance at religious observance. - Travel requirements for gypsy/traveller families. - Illness preventing school attendance. - Prior permission granted by the school for exceptional circumstances. - Lack of transport arranged by the local authority. For further details on school attendance and absence policies, parents are encouraged to consult the relevant government guidance.