Leave of Absence in Term Time Request Form

Parents are reminded that leave of absence during term time is not a right and will only be granted if there are exceptional circumstances. As we all know any absence has a detrimental effect on a pupil’s academic progress and overall attendance level. It is expected that you discuss and gain authorisation from Hawthorns School before any arrangements are made.

The Governing Board of the school has a discretionary power to allow pupils to be absent during term time in exceptional circumstances. These can only be determined on an individual case by case basis, though ‘exceptional’ will refer to serious matters which are at the discretion of the Head of School and the Governing Body. Please note a family holiday and the cost of a holiday does not constitute an exceptional circumstance.

We would like to warn you that if you request term time leave and authorisation is refused but you continue to take the leave, take extended leave (over and above the dates agreed) or do not follow the correct procedures (including failing to notify the school) a referral may be made to the Local Authority who will consider appropriate legal action. This may include issuing a penalty notice or instigating a full prosecution in the Magistrate’s court.

Section 444(A) of the Education Act 1996 empowers the Local Authority to issue penalty notices for failure to ensure regular school attendance. Parents or carers who take their children out of school in term time without school’s permission may receive a penalty notice fine of £80, which must be paid within 21 days. If payment is made after 21 days, but before 28 days, the penalty is increased to £160. Please note a penalty notice will be issued to each parent/ carer, for each child removed from school during term time.

Where a fine remains unpaid after 28 days, the matter will be referred to the Borough Solicitor, who will consider instigating legal proceedings. Parents should note that parenting orders may be issued by courts where a persistent absence is recorded.

Hawthorns School requests that all applications for leave of absence are received at least one month in advance of the first day of leave, although we recognise that this is not always possible in the case of an emergency. Each application will be considered individually and you will receive a written response.