At Beechwood Primary School, we want every child to enjoy the learning, friendships and opportunities that come from regular school attendance. For this reason, we ask families to plan holidays during official school holiday periods.

Parents and carers have a legal duty to make sure their child receives a full‑time education and attends school regularly.

Government guidance states that family holidays should not be taken during term time. The Headteacher can only authorise leave when an application is made in advance and there are exceptional circumstances.

If you believe your child needs time off for exceptional reasons, please complete an application for exceptional leave during term time form before making any arrangements. Authorisation is not automatic. Each request is considered carefully by the Headteacher, following national guidance.

Exceptional circumstances are rare, significant and unavoidable events that genuinely require your child to be away from school. These are situations that cannot be planned outside term time.

Examples that may be considered exceptional include:

• Critical illness of a parent or carer – when a child may need meaningful time with a seriously ill loved one.

• Bereavement – a short period of leave may be authorised following the request.

• Sudden family crisis – emergency changes in care arrangements or situations affecting a child’s welfare.

• Armed forces parents returning from deployment – limited windows for family reunion.

• Unavoidable legal or immigration appointments – embassy or visa interviews that cannot be rearranged...etc

Any authorised leave will be granted for a limited and specific period of time only.

What is not considered exceptional:

Some reasons feel important to families, but they do not meet the national threshold for authorisation.

Examples that will not be authorised include:

• Family holidays or trips during term time

• Trips /Surprise trips or “once‑in‑a‑lifetime” holidays

• Visiting relatives abroad 

• Birthdays or celebrations

• Parent work commitments or cheaper travel dates...etc

These absences will be recorded as unauthorised.

Parents/carers will receive written notification confirming whether the absence has been authorised or unauthorised and outlining any relevant next steps.

Unauthorised holidays may lead to a penalty notice. Penalty notices are issued per parent, per child, meaning that separated parents may both receive a notice regardless of who arranged the holiday.

The school must follow national guidance and make decisions that are fair, consistent, and in the best interests of children’s learning.

We understand that families may face difficult or sensitive situations. If you need advice or support, please speak with the school.

Working together helps ensure every child benefits from consistent learning and school experiences.