Parents are being alerted to an increase in fines for pulling their children out of school during term time.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson told the BBC there "will have to be consequences" and noted that penalties are a "well-established practice" that is "here to stay".
Ms Phillipson emphasised the significance of parents "honouring our responsibilities".
"Children not being in school doesn't just have an impact on those individual children, it means that teachers often have to recover material because children have missed out," she said.
Some parents have claimed it's a "no-brainer" to choose to go on holiday in term time when considering the fine in comparison with the far higher expense of a high season trip.
But what are term time holiday fines and how much are they increasing to?
What are term time holiday fines?
Parents may be fined if they take their children on holiday during term time.
Many take their children on holiday during term time because they save thousands on cheaper flights and accommodation.
One mother of two told the BBC the fines are “nothing compared to the saving you make”.
Jasmine Clarke, who lives in Brighton, said holidays would be impossible if they travelled during the summer holidays.
She said: "We think as a family it is important to be able to spend time together, for everyone's mental health," and that holidays had educational value since they allowed kids to "experience new locations, new foods, and new languages”.
How much are the fines?
Beginning in August, local authorities will impose minimum fines of £80 per pupil instead of the previous £60 for removing a child from class without authorisation for five school days.
The nationwide fine for missing school will be £160 if paid within 28 days, or £80 if paid within 21 days, starting in August 2024. This rate is the first increase since 2012 and is in line with inflation.
Which cases are sent to the council for possible fines is at the discretion of head teachers.If pupils consistently miss school, parents may face legal action, a fine of up to £2,500, a community service order or possibly a three-month jail sentence.
