At present, families are unable to take their children on holiday in term time without facing hefty fines. This is a government initiative and is NOT led by schools. 
As a result, only wealthy people who can afford to take their family on holiday during half terms/school breaks can afford to do so. This leaves thousands of families unable to experience family holidays- this is scandalous. 
There is a national attendance crisis due, partly, to the fact that it is still ONLY possible to go on holiday in term time as it is still cheaper to do so even with the fine.

What is the solution? A well-being week.

Allow every family one weeks authorised absence for a family break/holiday. Restrictions for SAT’s weeks and GCSE’s can be put in place or it could be agreed that the holiday must only be taken in Autumn/Spring Term. Holidays are educational and a crucial part of a happy childhood. Imagine growing up never experiencing a holiday or your family being fined and facing stress for trying to do something special. 

I am calling on Keir Starmer and the new Labour Government to recognise the nuanced reasons why children are absent from school and to address the holiday aspect of this. Please allow all families one week in term time to go on holiday. Please sign this petition to help families across the country have a fair chance of opportunities and experiences.