Story perspectives

Parents Pay £41M in School Absence Fines Amid Holidays

1/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

More than £41 million in fines have been paid by parents in England and Wales for unauthorized absences, Confused.com reports.
Fines can reach £160 per child.
Some families view paying the fine as cheaper than holiday travel.
Rebecca Allerton, a mother of three, argues that missing some school is not detrimental if attendance remains above 95%.
Her family has avoided fines by planning absences, believing their children's education remains unaffected.

1 of 1

Story summary

More than £41 million in fines have been paid by parents in England and Wales for unauthorized absences, Confused.com reports.
Fines can reach £160 per child.
Some families view paying the fine as cheaper than holiday travel.
Rebecca Allerton, a mother of three, argues that missing some school is not detrimental if attendance remains above 95%.
Her family has avoided fines by planning absences, believing their children's education remains unaffected.