Holiday in term time for a child who is still 4 years of age

[starsparkle08]

Just wondering where i would stand taking my son who will be 4 in august out of school for 3 days in october this year? he will be in reception but still only 4. children do not legally have to be enrolled in school before age 5. Any advice ?

We're taking our son in May, we put in our holiday request, got it back saying unapproved, but they're not going to do anything about it. Maybe ask teachers? But I don't think they can/will do anything, no.

Oh fgs go....He won't miss anything at that stage, some dcs won't even be at school by then.

My son is the youngest in his year with an end August birthday. He's doing really well at school and is more than keeping up with the others in his class. But my view would be that he needs all the help he can get - once they're at school they're at school and you need to stick to school holiday time. Surely education is more important than a few pounds off a holiday?

I think once you agree to start school, the normal holiday rules apply, so it is unlikely to be authorised for a 4 yr old, or older.

Your choice.

Ive already booked it , just was considering saying he was poorly but dont want to be dishonest. he goes to a specialist school as he has autism and learning difficulties. like you say dont think he will be missing alot and hopefully with it a little bit quieter he will enjoy it more

its mainly to do with places being less busy due to his autism. It is not really about saving money . His schooling is very important to me also which is why I have looked at a week which has two pd days at the end of it meaning only missing the 3 days rather than 5 xx

Perhaps it's worth speaking to the school about the learning/development opportunities he will get from the holiday, and the benefits of going when it's quieter? You could ask what you can do to support his learning while you're away? It could be a different case with a specialist school and your son's needs...sorry for assuming it was just the usual cost reason!

Perhaps it's worth speaking to the school about the learning/development opportunities he will get from the holiday, and the benefits of going when it's quieter? You could ask what you can do to support his learning while you're away? It could be a different case with a specialist school and your son's needs...sorry for assuming it was just the usual cost reason!

If he is enrolled in school it probably won't be an authorised absence for the holiday, but it shouldn't put you off. You might get a letter warning you about potential fines, but I think they're only issued if you exceed the maximum number of days they allow (not sure what it is.)

Yes I will speak to school in advance about it. Hopefully they will have understanding as to why I have chosen to do this . Thats a good idea of asking what i can do to support his learning whilst we are away . It would be better if the 3 days are approved but think I would much rather be honest than to lie and say he is unwell.

I'm pretty sure they can't do anything legally about it until age 5.