I am writing to you under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 to request the following information regarding fines handed out to parents for taking their children out of school without permission. I am looking for information for the school year so far (from Sept until now) and for the last two academic school years, please - 2022-2023 and 2021-2022.

1. How many schools are in your area?
• 55 Primary Schools
• 10 Secondary Schools
• 7 Special/Alternative Schools
• 15 Independent schools
That is 87 total or 65 state Schools

2. How many fines have been handed out to parents for taking their children out of school without permission?
• 2023-24 (to date, 29 January 2024): 606
• 2022-23: 1242
• 2021-22: 645

3. How much money has been collected from these fines, per academic year and this academic year so far?
• 2023-24 (to date, 29 January 2024): £27,690
• 2022-23: £69,117
• 2021-22: £35,280

4. How much is the average fine in the local area for taking children out of school without permission?
Fines are set centrally, at a rate of £60 if paid within 21 days, rising to £120 from days 22-28. Fines are issued per parent, per child.