First Day of School: The Most Searched Questions in the UK - Answered

The first day of school is a milestone that tugs at every parent’s heartstrings. From the excitement of trying on their very first uniform to the emotional moment of waving them off at the school gates, it’s a day filled with both joy and nerves.

The team here at My 1st Years has analysed Google data, and it shows that parents across the UK are searching for answers to the same school-related questions. From term dates, when children start school, to holiday term  questions.

To make things easier, we’ve put together some of the most frequently searched first day of school-related questions, along with practical advice to help you (and your little one) feel more confident.

Planning for School Holidays

It seems that as soon as we drop them off, we’re already thinking ahead to the next break. And it makes sense! Whether it’s arranging childcare, booking a trip, or simply preparing for how to keep them entertained, school holidays require just as much organisation as term time.

If you find yourself searching for term dates and wondering how to fill the time, planning ahead can make all the difference. Some parents opt for holiday clubs, day trips, or playdates, while others embrace slower mornings and a chance to reset before the next school term.

Understanding Unauthorised Absences and School Fines

One thing parents need to keep in mind when planning school holidays is the UK’s strict rules on term-time absences. The government imposes fines on parents who take their children out of school without permission. From reception age onwards, fines start at £60 per child, per parent, increasing to £120 if unpaid within 21 days.

While it’s tempting to book a cheaper off-peak holiday, schools rarely approve term-time absences unless there are exceptional circumstances. Councils take this seriously, with some issuing thousands of fines each year.

Do Both Parents Have to Pay School Fines if Separated?

For separated parents, school fines can feel even more confusing. If both parents share parental responsibility, they can both be fined, even if only one parent made the decision to take the child out of school.

Typically, fines are issued per parent, per child, meaning that if two children are involved, each parent could receive two separate fines. However, local councils have some discretion, and enforcement may depend on factors such as custody arrangements and who has day-to-day care.

With fines doubling if left unpaid, it's important for parents, whether together or separated, to fully understand the rules before making any decisions about term-time absences.

How many school terms in a year?

The school year is split into three main terms; Autumn, Spring, and Summer, each with a half term break in the middle. Most schools follow this pattern, though exact dates can vary depending on the region and type of school. In total, kids are in school for about 190 days a year, with breaks for Christmas, Easter, and a long summer holiday. If you’re looking for exact term dates, the best place to check is your child’s school or your local council's website. 

What age do children start school?

Most kids start school in the September after they turn four, joining reception and turning five during that school year. Legally, children must be in school by the half term after their fifth birthday. In Scotland, kids start primary 1 at four or five, depending on their birthday. If your child is born in the summer (April-August) some schools offer the option to delay their start date by a year, but you’ll need to check with your local council. 

Molly Ejdowski, Brand Marketing Manager at My 1st Years says: 
“Every first is special, first days, first holidays, first milestones. As parents, we want to soak up every moment while also making sure we’re doing the best for our little ones. It’s reassuring to know that so many of us share the same questions, from planning holidays to navigating school attendance rules. While Google can provide quick answers, every school and local council has its own policies, so it’s always worth checking with official sources.”