Today’s news review includes reports about term time holidays and Justine Greening’s first opinion piece as Education Secretary.
Term time holidays
Yesterday, 28 July, it was reported that the Isle of Wight Council had submitted papers to the Supreme Court seeking permission to challenge the High Court’s decision to uphold the overturning of a fine handed to Jon Platt, a father who took his children out of school during term time.
This was picked up today by the Telegraph and Metro. We are absolutely clear that children’s attendance in school is non-negotiable, and that's why the Department is supporting the Isle of Wight Council’s legal challenge against this ruling.
The evidence is very clear that every extra day of school missed can affect a pupil’s chance of gaining good GCSEs, and also has an impact on other children.
A Department for Education spokesperson said:
Children’s attendance in school is non-negotiable. The evidence is clear that every extra day of school missed can affect a pupil’s chance of gaining good GCSEs which has a lasting effect on their life chances. Unauthorised absence during term time doesn’t just have an impact on the child’s education, but also on teachers and other children.
The recent High Court judgment has created uncertainty for parents, schools and local authorities. It is essential that the ruling is clarified, so we are supporting the Isle of Wight Council’s appeal.
Justine Greening opinion piece
Today, Justine Greening wrote her first opinion piece as Education Secretary, which was published in the TES.
Her piece reflects upon the education she received as a pupil and admires the teachers that shaped her early life. After thanking all of her ‘educators’ the Secretary of State passionately calls for today’s profession to emulate this enthusiasm to unlock every child’s potential.
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