The Government has amended the school attendance regulations, with effect from 1st September 2013.

The amendments make clear that the head teachers may not grant any leave of absence during term time, unless there are exceptional circumstances. Holidays will not count as exceptional circumstances.

The new regulations mean, in effect, that schools cannot authorise any holidays during term time. Parents may wish to have this information when planning future holidays. Full details can be found on the Department of Education web-site, "The Education (Pupil Registration), (England), (Amendment), Regulations 2013".