Going on holiday during school times

So we’re thinking of going away but as it’s more expensive during the actual holidays and limited availability we were considering taking our child out during school times in February. It would only be Monday- Friday he would miss and he’s only in reception which I thought would be ok as not as intense year, but what is the procedure and that and what’s the penalty for it?

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You'll get a fine, which will cost more than your holiday (esp if you're not a single parent - as both parents would be fined). Had your child of been in nursery, then it would have been fine as its not compulsary. Once in reception it is.

Honestly there’s so many different answers

My mum took me out of school for a week and told them that it was for grieving and we went to a holiday caravan where we used to go with my grandparents who passed

https://www.twinkl.co.uk/teaching-wiki/reception-class#:~:text=Reception%20is%20not%20compulsory%20in,can%20fall%20into%20reception%20class. https://www.gov.uk/school-attendance-absence#:~:text=A%20holiday%20is%20generally%20not,child%20away%20during%20term%20time. Basically the term after your child turns 5, your child is classed as being in full time education. Best to check out the schools absense policy & speak to them before making any holiday plans. They may* allow it?🤷🏼‍♀️ Otherwise the fine is just not worth it.

@Katie that's still classed as compassionate leave. Technically your mum didn't 'lie' per se, esp if you were grieving. Plus how long ago were you at school? The rules have changed a lot since then.