That's a bit unfair, Steve. He is not trying to bend the rules. As far as I am aware you have to ask permission. I know families in other schools who have done this, and received authorisation for the same circumstances.
So, whats the option, call in sick
Pay a fine......
There are many many people who do this, for many different reasons.
So you play by the rules, and get a non thought through result, imho.
I don't have this problem with children now, mine are grown up. I still do not agree with the big brother attitude over this. Since time (or education began) we have achieved a fantastic results in science, men on the moon, computers, Concorde, etc, etc, etc. Then two years or so ago, some do gooder idiot decides we cannot achieve anything more unless children spend every single day in school.
We got to where we are today without this rule.
If a child has a certain level of attendance, this should be taken into account.
I do take a bit of offence at your post Sir Tig, as the family are not as you suggest. They get involved in all school activities and are really normal everyday people, ready to help if they can. Yes, they have a few bob, he could have stuck two fingers up at the rules and paid a fine.....but no...he followed the rules. As he also said, his daughter has an exemplary attendance record. And its the first time they have required absence.
I wonder if the Head worries about kid's education when his union calls a strike.....!!!!!!!!!!