mad house Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I'm feeling really bad! Booked to go to Florida last week, planned for December cos the children don't seem to do much then. I have now realised that I have to take them out of school for 12 days instead of 10 and am feeling really bad about it. I don't agree with taking children out of school, this was the only time in the year that I would feel happy about doing so. Our headteacher is a real old bat too Someone please tell me not to be an old worry wort...it might make me feel a bit better!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Sorry...I have to agree with Daniel. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jules. Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I have taken Alexander out of school each school year for 5 days, normally for a Center Parcs trip, as they are soooo expensive during the school holidays. School has been fine about this, but last week on the school newsletter we were told that all holiday requests from September will be unauthorised. Doesn't bother me, we are already planning a trip to Disneyland Paris next May after his Year 6 SATS It's just school's way of juggling the figures ( I think- any teachers on here enlighten me?) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Dogmother Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I wouldn't be happy taking Rosie out of school during term time either - what with inset days and the like, they have little enough teaching time as it is. Sorry, but that's my opinion. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jules. Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I'm feeling really bad! Booked to go to Florida last week, planned for December cos the children don't seem to do much then. I have now realised that I have to take them out of school for 12 days instead of 10 and am feeling really bad about it. I don't agree with taking children out of school, this was the only time in the year that I would feel happy about doing so. Our headteacher is a real old bat too Someone please tell me not to be an old worry wort...it might make me feel a bit better!! What do they do in December, apart from school discos & parties, watching videos & getting completely hyped up? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Maths, English, Science, reading, School plays, Special assemblies........ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I think those few weeks before christmas are exciting for them, there are usually school plays and carol concerts for them to join in Changing the subject slightly Harry and Juliette had been practising for weeks, for a play they were both in in their spanish class, which they attend after school, this was due to take place on the wednesday before half term, this had to be cancelled as 5 of the children ended up being taken out of school that week for holidays, not really fair on the rest of the class Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 (edited) I'm feeling really bad! Booked to go to Florida last week, planned for December cos the children don't seem to do much then. I have now realised that I have to take them out of school for 12 days instead of 10 and am feeling really bad about it. I don't agree with taking children out of school, this was the only time in the year that I would feel happy about doing so. Our headteacher is a real old bat too Someone please tell me not to be an old worry wort...it might make me feel a bit better!! You've obviously thought about this Jo, and others on here seem to have strong opinions - but these are your children. Taking kids out of school as a matter of habit is obviously not a good idea - but it doesn't sound like you do that. Not everyone can afford Florida at peak times - one of the reasons we have never been - and probably will never be able to afford to go... the kids may miss out on some school stuff, and teachers (probably rightly) tear their hair out when parents do this.. but the bottom line is that you obviously don't make a habit out of this - it won't kill your children to miss some December school time, and you've booked it now anyway.. so I suggest you write to the head - explain what has happened - reassure her that you are aware of the importance of school-time for your children's education, and that this won't happen again.. (and if you can - arrange with other parents - or their teacher - for opportunities to catch up - or work in advance - on any key school project work - depending on their ages!!) and then... most importantly... pack your bags, jet off to Florida, and enjoy your holiday as a family - chances are they will have a ball with you - and will enhance their education along the way.. i reckon it sounds like you feel bad enough already without being told off - so, off you go Jo!! make your plans, involve the kids in deciding what you will do while you are there, and HAVE A FANTASTIC HOLIDAY!!! Phil Edited June 21, 2007 by Guest Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
beach chick Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 fab answer from the revnev!! I havent taken ours out (apart from the very odd Friday afternoon) since they were in Y2 and recep, but if a fantastic opportunity like Florida came up, I would do it again. no, I dont think its generally a good idea, but travel broadens the mind and all that, they'll see a different country and culture - so go for it! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jules. Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 i forgot to say that when Alexander goes to high school that will be the end of term-time holidays.... just as Ethan starts reception Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hillfamily Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 It's a difficult one :think: Being both a parent and having also been Chairman Of Governors at a local primary school I can see this issue from both sides. Whilst being C of G, the headteacher teacher and I had to implement a new initiative to increase school attendance as our Ofsted Report had highlighted that we were just below the national average and needed to do something about it. Analysis showed that the non attendance was mainly due to holidays and non attendance effects learning. We were also very aware being parents ourselves that holidays during school holiday time are very expensive and this was why parents wanted to take their children out of school. You have to do what you feel comfortable doing Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lailapet Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I think it's a difficult choice. As Sophia often travels to England to see her dad she also sometimes misses out on a day or two before or after holidays. Usually, I I can get cheap flights! It's wrong to compromise my child's schooling because of money, but the alternative would be that she wouldn't see her father and old friends at all. I also know that she is doing very well at school and I'm not worried. I always have to fill in a form saying that I am homeschooling for those days and they ask her to keep a diary of what she is up to in England. I agree, go on holiday and have a great time - it doesn't matter if it happens once, but when things are cancelled or classes half full in the weeks leading up to half term holidays I can understand the school's problems. Can't see a way round this though. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicola H Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Jo I understand how you feel I am feeling the same way at the moment...........We are taking Emily out of school for 4 days because we are going to New York, I went into school and explained that it wasn't a shopping trip that we were going to visit lots of historic sites and would be making sure that Emily learns something about American history while we are away.........Even though it is classed as an unathorised absence the school are happy for us to go and her form teacher has asked that we bring back lots of info. and pics. so that they can be shown to the whole class and they can all learn something............I feel a lot happier now I have spoken to the school. I have never taken either child out of school for a holiday before and don't think generally it is a good idea but if they are learning something along the way and you don't make a habit of it then i can't see the harm........ Have a great time in Florida the children will love it........... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sheilaz Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 ....Someone please tell me not to be an old worry wort...it might make me feel a bit better!! Don't be an old worry wort! There, hope that does the trick. Have a fab time and enjoy every minute with your family. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
susanbb Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 We are taking Ruari our son ot of school so he can go to Florida in July with my sister. As you may know, the holiday in Scotland are sooner and I don't think it'd look too good on my sister who is a headteacher in a primary school not to be there when her young people return. We've also promised Ruari's school that he'll do any additional work when he comes back from his holiday........aswell as a holiday diary So ENJOY your holiday Susan Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Sorry if my post came across as a bit moany It was just my two had the starring roles, Jules was Goldilocks and Harry was Daddy Bear and they had lots of lines all in Spanish so I was a bit miffed it was cancelled, a chance for stardom missed Please have a lovely holiday and take lots of pics I've never been to Florida, Harry and Jules went with grandparents a couple of years ago, but we do plan we take them ourselves so will be interested to hear about it Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Have a lovely holiday and don't listen to a menopausal old hag like me. Everyone's circumstances are different and you must do what feels right. I'm sure it is better to take time off at the end of term and not at the beginning when friendship groups are being re-formed. What have you got planned re visits etc. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paola Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Dont worry Jo I take my eldest out of school each year for a week in Jan skiing. However that might change when she gets oider if it is close to exams. She is never off sick and is never late so I never feel bad. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
xChicken04x Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 just do it! and have fun too. dont worry about the school, life is for living besides 12 days with out school isnt bad at all and when will they get the chance to go to florida again? they can go to school any old day but FLORIDA! doesnt that just scream "OPERTUNITY!!!!!!!!" i know what i would pick. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dippy Egg Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 My eldest child is 12 and I took him out of school for a week when he was in Reception. I don`t regret it. We went to St.Lucia and he experienced a different continent and culture. We still talk about that holiday and he can remember a song about a volcano that he learnt. How many other children from his class remember what they learnt that week I wonder? Since then my boys have only ever missed the odd day or half day. Less than a week 3 0r 4, all authorised. I have to say however that we are finding financing holidays really difficult. We have 6 children so that is 8 flights, a minibus and a large villa when we go abroad or 2 cars and a big house/chalet in the uk. We do have a tent but what with the weather and complications of having to book so far in advance in order to get ex husbands/wives to agree I don`t really fancy that option anymore. It may be that we will have to take the boys out of school next year if we want a decent holiday. There needs to be a balance between quality family time and a comprehensive education. Go to Florida, study the Everglades, bask in the sun and have fun! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 We have 6 children Wow...good for you. Never a dull moment I expect. Are they all boys? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charlottechicken Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Could the children keep a diary whilst they are away so there is some evidence of learning that the school would be happy with? It would be a nice thing to keep and look back on too if they don't get the chance to go again. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dippy Egg Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Yes all 6 are boys. 3 live with us full time and 3 part time. I hide the grey hairs with highlights and drink large amounts of wine! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
theherd123 Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 Yes all 6 are boys. 3 live with us full time and 3 part time. I hide the grey hairs with highlights and drink large amounts of wine! I teach 25 students and the same highlights and wine technique works for me too! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tina C Posted June 21, 2007 Share Posted June 21, 2007 I am against taking children out of school in principle and would not do it myself - I don't want to give the impression that we just decide 'school isn't important, so lets take some time off'...its a work ethic thing. HOWEVER it is a difficult one - we enjoy taking holidays in the UK so the cost thing is less of an issue for us (especially as there are only 3 of us and we love camping!) As Layla gets older we do want her to experience different cultures (OH rode to India on a motorbike - via Iran and Pakistan - before she was born so he wants her to get the travel bug). So it may become an issue for us later on. Layla went on a school trip this week - to a castle - and when she came back she said she wanted all school to be like that. I thought she meant that she wanted lots of days out but she pulled me up sharply on that and patiently explained that she meant that it was a 'real' experience and that makes learning more interesting. So go on - give them experiences they will never forget - we have a lifetime to learn after all. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
