Family Holidays During Term Time

If you wish to request leave for your child during term time, please complete the Request for Leave during Term-Time form found below at least 7 working days before the proposed start date of the absence.

• Please click here to access this form.

All requests will be considered by the Headteacher, and you will be notified of the decision within 3 working days.

Government Guidance and Local Authority Policy

The Government has instructed Haringey Local Authority to take a stricter approach to family holidays during term time. Haringey Education Welfare Services have advised that parents may face Fixed Penalty Fines for any unauthorised absences.

If, after careful consideration, you still wish to take your child out of school during term time, please note that only the Headteacher can authorise such absences. Parents and carers cannot authorise absences themselves, and permission must be requested and granted before any travel arrangements or tickets are booked.

Please be aware that unauthorised absence may result in a Fixed Penalty Fine, or in some cases, your child being removed from the school roll, which would require you to reapply for a school place.
We therefore ask that, wherever possible, family holidays are arranged during school holidays.

Why Attendance Matters

Taking time off school for holidays can disrupt learning and make it difficult for children to catch up when they return. Regular attendance is key to academic success.

There are:

• 190 school days each year for learning, and
• 175 non-school days (weekends and holidays) for family time and travel.

Time lost from school due to family holidays can be disruptive to a child’s education and may affect their progress. We strongly advise parents and carers to avoid term-time absences whenever possible, as children can find it challenging to catch up when they return.

Government research shows that missing just 17 school days per year can lead to a drop of one GCSE grade in achievement. For this reason, leave during term time will only be granted in exceptional circumstances.

Religious Observance

The school must be informed, preferably in advance, if you wish to take your child out of school for a religious festival. The school allows one day to be taken for religious observance. If you require an additional day, a holiday request form should be completed in advance.

Our staff at Gladesmore School are commited in helping every child achieve their full potential. We trust that you will continue to support us in maintaining high attendance and ensuring your child’s ongoing success.

Thank you for your continued support.

Ms M Dyer
Gladesmore Attendance Manager
020 8800 0884 (Option 1)