Community & Support News

Guidance on Term Time Absence Requests

When the operational needs of the Armed Forces have legitimately prevented a Service family from taking family leave during school holidays, Service personnel may apply for permission, in writing, to the school for authority to allow their child leave of absence during term time.

The decision to authorise term time absence is at the head teacher’s discretion based on their assessment of the situation, principally the educational needs of the child(ren) involved.

Process

Applications are to be sent in writing to the head teacher, in advance of the proposed leave of absence and should detail the reason why term time absence is unavoidable.

The head teacher retains sole responsibility for granting term time absence and will, if approved, determine the period of absence permitted. As this is principally an issue in England, to assist head teachers in making their decisions, the MOD has provided guidance to DfE school head teachers on the assistance/advice available from Commanding Officers and Welfare staff (internal link)

If the head teacher refuses permission, then the serving parent should seek advice from his/her Chain of Command in the first instance. If the head teacher continues to refuse permission, then parents do not have the right to remove their child(ren) during term time.

The local council can give each parent a fine of £60, which rises to £120 each if not paid within 21 days. If the fine remains unpaid after 28 days, parents may be prosecuted for their child(ren)’s absence from school.

Point of Contact

Any query relating to this issue or any matter relating to the education of Service children should be directed to the Children’s Education Advisory Service (CEAS):

Directorate Children & Young People (DCYP)

Trenchard Lines

Upavon

Wiltshire

SN9 6BE

Email: [email protected]