The school holidays can be a struggle at the best of times, but when food costs are still sky high, it can be an added stress for families.
29.02.2024 - 14:29 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Parents in Manchester have responded to the news that fines are increasing for taking kids out of school.
Families in England who take their children out without permission will soon face a fine of £80 instead of £60 and if it's not paid within 21 days, it'll rise to £160, rather than the current £120.
But mums and dads believe the move will make little difference, with many saying the 'extortionate' costs of holidaying when kids are off is to blame.
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"Can be an extra £1000-£2000 minimum to go away in school holidays, so an extra £80 even if it’s per parent won’t stop anyone," said Emma Hurst-Grover, commenting on our Manchester Family Facebook page.
Mum Claire said: "We compared the prices for going on holiday during term time and during the school holidays when we booked last week and the difference was ridiculous so we booked for the week before he finishes for half term, he's only 5 and his attendance has been great so far so what harm is a week going to do? And we if get fined it's still cheaper to pay the fine."
Deborah Gilligan described the hike as 'ridiculous' and said: "Won’t stop parents taking children out of school for a family holiday, because it’s the difference in being able to afford a holiday or stay at home. You can be talking £1000’s extra for the sake of a few days it’s madness. Children need family experiences and learn from travel as well as in a classroom."
Karen Collins believes the Department for Education is 'targeting the wrong people' rather than focusing on families who persistently allow children to stay home and refuse to engage with school.
"I doubt children who have a couple of weeks off a year to go on holiday are falling
The school holidays can be a struggle at the best of times, but when food costs are still sky high, it can be an added stress for families.
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