England has introduced an increase in fines for unauthorised school absences as part of efforts to enhance attendance rates following the Covid-19 pandemic. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan announced that the Department for Education will raise the initial fine from £60 to £80, with late payments escalating from £120 to £160. This change aims to standardize penalties across the country amidst concerns over varying approaches by local authorities.

The adjustment in fines comes in response to the significant rise in penalty notices for unauthorised absences, particularly for holidays taken during term-time. In the previous academic year, a record 350,000 parents were fined for such absences, reflecting a 20% increase from the levels recorded in 2018-19 before the pandemic.

This policy is intended to support the government’s wider strategy to reduce chronic absenteeism among schoolchildren. Education sector leaders have indicated general support for a more unified national framework regarding fines. However, some have voiced apprehensions about the efficacy of fines in addressing the root causes of persistent absence, highlighting issues such as mental health and economic challenges faced by families.

The Department for Education has emphasized the critical role of regular attendance in unlocking children’s potential and developing social skills. Meanwhile, the Labour Party’s shadow education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has criticized the emphasis on punitive measures, advocating for a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying reasons for absences.

Implementation of the new guidance on fines is scheduled for September, with the government advocating early intervention and support for students at risk of poor attendance.