A mother from Rotherham has ignited debate over term-time travel.
Whitney Ainscough, 31, says taking her three children on holiday during school weeks is both reasonable and educational. However, she now faces a £60 fine and a legal notice that could lead to a criminal record under Section 444(1) of the Education Act 1996.
Last year, the family took two trips—Cyprus and Zante—costing £13,000 in total. Each holiday meant five missed school days. Ainscough, a social-media creator, shared her frustration online after receiving the penalty, then a Single Justice Procedure notice. She has replied to the council, explaining her decision.
Her case rests on two points. First, she argues the trips have learning value—visiting historic sites and natural landmarks. Second, she says peak-season crowds overwhelm one child, who has additional needs. Therefore, quieter weeks make travel manageable. “It isn’t about money,” she says. “It’s about our child’s ability to cope.”
Moreover, she plans another term-time visit to Paris for Disneyland and the Eiffel Tower. She rejects the idea of leaving the children at home and believes they can catch up on missed work. She also feels her online profile has made her a target.
The law requires “regular” attendance, though parents may present “reasonable justification.” That question—what counts as reasonable—now sits at the heart of her dispute.
Rotherham Council has been asked for comment.
