Derbyshire parents fined for taking children out of school during term time

In just three months the new zero tolerance approach to unauthorised absences has left many families counting the cost as schools bid to boost attendance.

Since September, when the new legislation was enforced, Derbyshire County Council has collected £21,540 in penalty fines from 359 parents.

Parents are fined £120 per parent, per child which is slashed to £60 per parent, per child, if paid within 21 days.

A spokesman for Derbyshire County Council, which collects the fines, said the money paid for the scheme to be administered and they do not make a profit.

Dean and Mandy Smith - who were hit with a bill after being told their wedding was not a ‘special occasion’ by the school - have shared their story with the Derbyshire Times.

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