Teenager's school won't allow holidays, need other explanations for absences

[sandrascoffee]

Hi,

My 16 year old son is in secondary school and we are planning to take a holiday during term time that will result in him missing school for two weeks. We chose these dates as the travel expenses were far lower and the destination would be less busy. It also lined up well with my work.

On my son's school website, it states that absences will be approved due to medical circumstances, a sporting/cultural event or bereavement leave or certain family circumstances but family holidays will not be approved when taken during school. Our family doctor was hestitant to give a medical certificate to my now 18 year old daughter who took a week and a bit off school for genuine medical reasons so I am relucant to go down that route.

I'm stuck with ideas as this is the first time we've taken a family holiday in years and it didn't occur during one of my child's last years of secondary school. If any mums would be able to share some advice that would be greatly appreciated!

Why didn’t you book for after the exams?
It’s still considered term time for flights. Plus a great way to de-stress after the exams. And no permission from school needed.

And what naff reason would you try and fob off the gp to scam a sick note with?

Most Yr 11s do not attend school after the exams finish so that is an economical holiday slot, you won’t be fined if you go then.

The exam contingency date is 24 June this year, and Y11s are on roll until the end of that week. They could go on holiday after that.

My first Mumsnet biscuit and I've been here for years.

Are you aware if he’s taking GCSE’s this year then he finishes for the summer a month early?

Thanks for your feedback. I probably should have realised that this is a UK based forum and I live in Australia where school has just gone back. Guess I've had one too many glasses of Pinot! I would never consider taking my children out of school close to exams and I do appreciate the consideration. To add to that, I had no idea that you could get fined for unapproved abscenses in the UK. I suppose I've learned two things today. Anyways, thank you all again and I'm going to find an Aussie based forum to ask this question on.

I probably should have realised that this is a UK based forum and I live in Australia where school has just gone back

OK, having received the update that you are in Australia: take the holiday whenever you feel it's least disruptive to his education. You said you were reluctant to ask the doctor for a medical note; listen to that instinct.

@sandrascoffee There are lots of posters based in Australia here, start a new thread with the title We’re in Aus, Term time holiday question!
And you will meet lots of the Australian MNers and get the help you need.

Good luck!