Term-time holiday guidance scares parents

The Island’s director of education says he wants parents to think carefully before they take their children on holiday during term time.

Martin Barrow was speaking after several parents were alarmed by letters from Arbory School which said parents would have to apply in writing for permission to take their children away.

Mr Barrow says the department’s policy hasn’t changed – and the school is reflecting its stance that term-time holidays should only be granted in exceptional circumstances.

And he says although legal action over the issue is possible, the department would rather not criminalise parents.