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Original poster

Term time holiday dates dilemma

63 replies

user657865337 · 11/09/2025 19:54

My DS started reception this year. We have booked a holiday for what we thought was October half term but it turns out we are actually due to fly out two days before term finishes eeek Blush (apparently DH checked the 24/25 calendar rather than the 25/26 calendar hence the mistake). We can pay a fair few hundred to change the date but I’d really rather not. AIBU to call him in sick for the two days? What would you do?? If it makes a difference he turns 5 at the beginning of October

OP posts:
Bunnycat101 · 11/09/2025 20:02

They won’t care about 2 days attached to half term. Also loads of kids at totally burnt out by that half term. Mine are often broken by that point and find it the heaviest half term of the year.

thismummyslife · 11/09/2025 20:01

If he’s still 4, you won’t get fined and honestly just tell them. Loads of people call in sick and the last day or so before a half term and it’s just embarrassing that they lied. I don’t think twice of a parent books the odd day here and there!

SquirrelRed · 11/09/2025 20:01

We've missed 2 days at the end of term before, I filled in the holiday form and I knew it wouldn't be authorised but I didn't give it a second thought.
Lots of people take kids out for a whole week or more so I really wouldn't worry about 2 days, especially in reception.

anon2022anon · 11/09/2025 20:01

He's not compulsory until 5, and 2 days is 4 sessions which is under the amount they fine for. Have a look on your school's website for a holiday form and have fun ☺️

Teachingagain · 11/09/2025 20:01

Just be honest. They can’t fine you because he isn’t complusory school age until the term after he turns 5.

Clearinguptheclutter · 11/09/2025 20:00

Don’t call in sick.

if he’s not 5 he’s not going to get fined. But he won’t anyway unless he misses a week.

it’s fine, don’t sweat

Sirzy · 11/09/2025 20:00

Don’t call him in sick. Just be honest with school.

I work in a school and generally it’s pretty obvious when parents are lying about these things anyway. Normally the child will give it away in their excitement!

Baddaybigcloud · 11/09/2025 19:59

Just tell them the truth and say your husband looked at the wrong calendar and you’re going to have to take two days unauthorised leave. No big deal.

Original poster
user657865337 · 11/09/2025 19:58

TeenToTwenties · 11/09/2025 19:56

Don't call him in sick.
Say you are going away and go.
Don't lie to the school.
He isn't mandated for education until jan anyway

Thank you. Does this mean it’s not compulsory for him to be in school until January?

OP posts:
Arlanymor · 11/09/2025 19:58

I would tell the truth. I don’t believe you can be fined until after he turns 5 - although sounds like this is happening before the trip. If you do get fined and it is less that the cost to change the dates then it’s probably worth it. I wouldn’t advocate this at any other age, but he’s right on the cusp and as another poster has said, the curriculum proper starts in January.

TeenToTwenties · 11/09/2025 19:56

Don't call him in sick.
Say you are going away and go.
Don't lie to the school.
He isn't mandated for education until jan anyway

Vgbeat · 11/09/2025 19:56

Just be honest. You won't be fined and honesty is the best policy.

Eeehbyeck · 11/09/2025 19:55

Don’t sweat it AT ALL just call him in sick and enjoy your holiday, he’s got many years at school left x

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