The Education Minister has confirmed that pupils may only be absent from school for multiple weeks during term time in exceptional circumstances.
Minister Daphne Caine says it’s normally only when a written request has been submitted in advance.
Responding to a Tynwald question from Speaker Juan Watterson, Minister Caine said parents are legally required to ensure regular attendance under the Education Act 2001, and that absences without prior written approval are generally recorded as unauthorised unless sufficient evidence is later provided.
Headteachers have full discretion to decide whether circumstances are “exceptional”, but holiday requests are not an entitlement.
Where a child is absent for several weeks without documentation, schools are expected to seek an explanation, review any supporting information, and assess the impact on the pupil’s education.
Cases that raise concern may be referred to the Education Welfare Service, and the Department said legal action against parents remains a last resort when all other avenues have been exhausted.
The full written answer can be found here.
