School fines cheaper than peak holiday fares, say parents

8 Jul 2025 • 9:28 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Fines for taking children out of school during term time for holidays are not deterring UK parents, as the savings from off-peak travel often outweigh the penalty.
  • New research indicates that a third of parents plan to take their children out of school for a holiday this year, with one in five doing so specifically to avoid peak summer travel costs.
  • Parents have collectively paid at least £41 million in fines since 2022, yet a separate study found average savings of £567 by travelling during term time, with some families saving over £1,000.
  • The current fine of £60 per child will increase to £80 by August.
  • Parents will then face a £160 fine for a second offence within three years, and potential court action for repeated non-payment or absences.

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