Headteacher criticised for taking break during term time for wedding

A primary school headteacher has come under fire after being given the go-ahead to take a four-week break during term time to get married.

Little Hill Primary in Wigston, Leicestershire, said acting head Vina Pankhania had arranged for "day-to-day management" of the school by colleagues during her absence.

In a letter which has sparked criticism from some pupils' parents, Little Hill's chair of governors, Jonathan Tedds, said the current acting deputy head would take charge of the school.

The letter stated: "We are writing to let you know that Miss Pankhania, the current acting headteacher, will be away from school between 28th April and 23rd May, inclusive, during which time she will be getting married!

"Miss Pankhania will then continue as acting headteacher until the end of the academic year, as previously advised.

"Mrs Helen Cartledge-Splitt, the current acting deputy headteacher, will coordinate and lead the current senior leadership team."

Mr Tedds added that governors had every confidence that the temporary leadership transition would be a smooth one, and regarded the well-being of the children as a top priority.

Families who take children out of school during term time for unauthorised holidays face fines of £60 per child per parent and can be taken to court if they refuse to pay.

One parent at Little Hill told the Leicester Mercury: "As a parent of two boys, I find this disgusting.

"How can governors approve leave just after Easter break when parents themselves can be fined for similar actions?