Family Holidays
Over the last few years, most of our schools have noticed an
increase in the number of pupils absent from schools arising from
family holidays. Perth & Kinross Council is aware that this
happens for a number of reasons:
- Parents are unable to take time off during school
holidays;
- Childcare arrangements;
- Cheaper holidays during term time.
Our headteachers, however, have noticed that this change can
have a number of adverse effects not only on the pupils who have
been absent but sometimes on the class or whole school. These can
be:
- An effect on individual pupil attainment and achievement, in
pupils who are on holiday on a regular basis;
- Disruption in class when pupils return;
- Disruption to teachers? assessment and testing schedules;
- Difficulty for pupils reintegrating back into school;
- Behavioural problems if pupils get behind in course work;
- The need for remedial work to be set;
- An effect on the general ethos of the school.
Short Term Absence
As a result, the Education & Children?s Services Committee
agreed the following policy:
Family holidays will be marked in school as an unauthorised
absence. This will be done even if you have told the school you
intend to take your child on holiday. No school work will be given,
although some schools may consider giving you information about
what will be covered during the absence.
Extended Absence
In addition, the Committee agreed that:
Extended visits ?overseas to relatives or extended absence in
relation to children of travelling people will be marked as an
authorised absence. Extended is defined as a period of more than
four weeks.'
Further Information
If you wish to discuss the matter further in relation to your
child, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
Perth & Kinross Council is aware that there are other issues
in relation to pupil absence from learning which cover more than
family holidays.
You should note that Perth & Kinross Council is not stopping
you from taking your child out of school for a family holiday. It
is, however, bringing to your attention that this can have a
detrimental effect on your child?s education.
