Term-Time Holidays vs School Attendance: What Teachers Really Think 2026

Term-time holidays are not just a parent rebellion—teachers themselves often see the value, according to a three-year research programme. Staff told researchers they would take their own children out of school for a holiday if they could afford it, despite schools' hardline stance on attendance.

The Attendance Crisis in England and Wales

Nearly one in five children in England and Wales now miss at least 10% of school, a figure that has remained stubbornly high since the pandemic. Schools have responded with fines and strict policies, but frontline staff doubt these measures work. The report, by youth charity Impetus and research firm Public First, found that many teachers share parents' scepticism about the efficiency of holiday fines.

One teacher admitted: "If I wasn't a teacher, I would take my daughter out of school and take her on holiday because it would be cheaper." Another added: "If it's the only holiday you get to experience in a five-year period, I think that's probably worth more than a week in school in January."

Why Teachers Support Term-Time Holidays

Teachers' views reflect a broader disillusionment with the school system's ability to address the attendance crisis. Many believe the system is not set up to deal with the root causes of absenteeism, such as poverty, mental health issues, and the cost of holidays during peak periods.

For families on low incomes, term-time holidays can be the only affordable option. The cost of a week away during school breaks can be double or triple the price of the same holiday during term time. Fines, which typically start at £60 per child per parent, may seem like a small price to pay compared to the savings.

Comparison of Holiday Costs: Term-Time vs School Holidays

The Impact on Children's Education

While teachers sympathise with parents, they also acknowledge the potential impact on pupils' learning. Missing a week of school can disrupt learning, especially for those already struggling. However, many argue that a family holiday can provide valuable experiences and bonding time that outweigh the academic loss.

The children's commissioner has warned of tens of thousands of hidden Neets (young people not in education, employment or training). Analysis suggests that an estimated 42,000 16- and 17-year-olds enrolled in colleges in England are attending less than half the time. This highlights a deeper issue: the attendance crisis extends beyond term-time holidays.

• Teachers often support term-time holidays due to cost savings and family benefits.
• Holiday fines are widely seen as ineffective by both parents and staff.
• The attendance crisis is complex, driven by poverty, mental health, and systemic issues.
• Term-time holidays can be significantly cheaper, with savings up to 50%.

What Can Be Done?

Addressing the attendance crisis requires a multifaceted approach. Schools could offer more affordable holiday options, or the government could regulate holiday prices during school breaks. Teachers suggest that instead of punitive fines, schools should focus on support and understanding.

Ultimately, the decision to take a term-time holiday is a personal one, but the research shows that even those within the education system question the current policies.

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