Fines for taking children out of school during term time in England are set to increase from today, the Government has confirmed.
After it was reported that nearly 400,000 penalty notices for unauthorised school absences were issued in England from 2022-23 – which was apparently much higher than pre-pandemic levels – the former Conservative Government revealed back in February its plans to “improve attendance” following a worldwide rise in absence and persistent absence.
According to Department for Education (DfE) figures released last December, almost nine in 10 (89.3%) of the fines issues were for unauthorised holidays, generally booked by families looking for cheaper off-peak trips.
Up until this point, the former Government’s plan to improve attendance has already included a number of new measures – including the expansion of so-called ‘attendance hubs’ nationally, the piloting of attendance mentors, and a national awareness campaign said to be aimed at “helping parents”.
But now, the rise in absence fines is set to be the next next measure.
From the first day of term to the last, the small moments in a school day make a real difference to your child.
Today we've announced further changes to help reduce avoidable absences.
As of today (19 August 2024), parent fines for unauthorised absences will be brought under a national framework to “help tackle inconsistencies in their use”, according to the Government.
Under the new plans, a fine to parents must be considered if a child misses five days of school for unauthorised absence, and alongside this, costs for fines will go up from £60 to £80 if paid within 21 days, and from £120 to £160 if paid in 28 days.
The former Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan, said this rise in fines will ensure all parents are aware of when they might face a fine, and ensure all local Councils are issuing fines “appropriately”.
Plans for the increasing of school absence fines were met with mixed reviews when first announced back in February, with a handful of critics pointing out potential issues with the measure – notably Paul Whiteman, who is the General Secretary of school leaders’ union, NAHT.
Fines for taking kids out of school during term time go up from today / Credit: gov.uk
When the plans were first announced, Mr Whiteman said that introducing a consistent national framework for fines “makes sense”, as there is currently a “significant variation” between how and when local authorities issue fines to parents.
But he did, however, state that he believes many parents will likely not respond well to the new measure.
Mr Whiteman said: “Parents will likely be surprised that, at a time when schools are struggling to find enough teachers to teach classes, when buildings are crumbling, and when we are in the middle of a crisis in special needs provision, that the Government is choosing to focus on increasing fines for parents.
“Good attendance is obviously critically important, but fines have long proven to be too blunt a tool and largely ineffective at improving persistent absence.”
Featured Image – gov.uk
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Huge new premium indoor golf venue with ‘cutting-edge’ tech to open at Quayside MediaCity
Emily Sergeant
Time to get practicing your swing, as a huge new premium indoor golf venue is opening up over in Salford this autumn.
Founded by a local PGA Professional and spanning a whopping 4,500 sq ft of state-of-the-art space, TeeClub is set to be a revolutionary new venture where cutting-edge technology meets luxurious comfort at the unique waterside destination.
TeeClub will provide a first-of-its-kind premium environment with seven high-tech Trackman simulators, taking players to more than 450 world-famous courses including St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, and more.
The new venue is also launching a partnership with sports equipment brand TaylorMade, so golf fans can either bring their own clubs to use on the day, or make use of TaylorMade equipment available if needed.
Resident PGA professionals will offer personalised lessons with AI-driven video analysis when the venue opens later this year, while a dedicated club fitter will make sure every swing is matched with the right equipment.
There’ll also be a club shop stocking TaylorMade gear alongside apparel from Manchester-based brand, Concrete Links Co.
The new venue is designed for both individuals and businesses alike, and will offer exclusive memberships and corporate packages, as well as semi-private bays and interactive gaming modes, making it an ideal place for team-building events or relaxed evenings with friends.
A huge new premium indoor golf venue with ‘cutting-edge’ tech is opening at Quayside MediaCity / Credit: Supplied
There’ll also be bar on site serving coffee, pizzas, snacks, wine, and craft beers.
“Our vision for TeeClub is to create an indoor golf experience that combines the authenticity of the sport with modern luxury,” commented Nick Holmes, who is a PGA Professional and the Director of Golf at TeeClub, ahead of the venue opening this autumn.
“Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn, a corporate group hosting an event, or an experienced golfer, TeeClub will provide the tools, technology, and atmosphere.”
TeeClub is set to open at Quayside this autumn, but an official launch date is yet to be confirmed, so keep your eyes peeled.
Featured Image – Supplied
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Florence + The Machine announce massive Manchester gig on new tour
Daisy Jackson
Florence + The Machine are heading back out on a huge arena tour, with a massive gig here in Manchester.
Florence Welch has announced the UK and European tour dates in support of her sixth studio album, Everybody Scream.
As well as a show at the Co-op Live in Manchester, Florence + The Machine will perform in Sheffield, London and Liverpool, along with several other UK cities.
She’ll be joined by Paris Paloma as support across all 18 dates.
Last week, Florence released the album’s title track, ahead of the album’s release on 31 October. She’s worked for two years on this new music, calling on collaborators including Mark Bowen of IDLES, Aaron Dessner and Mitski.
She has said that this new album explores womanhood, partnership, aging and dying, inspired by her recovery from lifesaving surgery on the Dance Fever Tour.
Big hits of Florence + The Machine’s discography include You’ve Got The Love, Shake It Out, and Spectrum (Say My Name), and she’s collaborated with the likes of Taylor Swift, The Rolling Stones, and Lady Gaga.
She’s famed for her high-energy, ethereal stage presence which has seen her sell out arenas for years.
Florence + The Machine will be back in Manchester in February 2026, performing at the Co-op Live on 20 February.
Tickets go on sale on Friday 5 September 2025 at 10am HERE.
There are also packages available with Seat Unique HERE.