At SSMJ, we believe that regular attendance is essential for your child’s academic success and wellbeing. In line with the Department for Education’s national framework, leave of absence during term time will not be granted unless there are exceptional circumstances. Any requests must be submitted in advance using our official Leave of Absence Form; please note that holidays are not considered exceptional circumstances.
Under the 2024/2026 national guidelines, schools are required to consider a Penalty Notice when a child misses 10 or more sessions (usually 5 days) of school for unauthorised reasons within a rolling 10-week period. The fine for a first offence is £80 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days, rising to £160 if paid between 22 and 28 days. A second offence within a rolling three-year period is charged at a flat rate of £160, and subsequent offences may lead to more significant legal action or prosecution. We thank you for your cooperation in ensuring your child is in school every day to make the most of their learning opportunities.
The current law does not allow parents/guardians to take their child out of school during term time for holidays. Parents can be fined for taking their compulsory school age child out of school during term time without consent from the Academy.
To make a request for Leave of Absence
- Read the below information (Parent Information Leaflet). If you still wish to request a leave of absence, complete and return the request form in full at least four weeks prior to the leave being taken and return to the Academy for approval.
- The Academy will contact you to authorise/unauthorise the leave of absence request.
