The couple’s decision to go on holiday when they did is costing them dearly
Liam Ryder Digital Production Editor
01:00, 19 Jul 2025
Daniel and Tammy Lambert faced a huge fine after their family holiday to Spain
A mum and dad have been ordered to pay almost £700 after taking their family on holiday during term time. Tammy and Daniel Lambert, who took their four children out of school for a trip to Spain in April 2024, have been ordered to pay nearly £700 by a court.
They were originally fined £480 for taking their children out of school, which is £60 per parent per child. The pair was issued the fine after having returned from Benalmadena in Spain last year. But because they refused to pay the fine and instead opted to take their case to court, they have to pay out even more.
Tammy and Daniel said they chose to go on holiday during term time because it was quieter for their autistic son. The court heard that their son, Riley, had been waiting for an autism assessment at the time of the holiday.
Since then, he has been diagnosed with autism having spent two years on a waiting list for the assessment. The couple, from Trent Vale in Staffordshire, made their case at a hearing at North Staffordshire Justice Centre, reports StokeonTrent Live.
Tammy told the court: “We had to time meals and go later when it was quieter. We were around the pool in a quieter area and when it was quieter.
“We had disability assistance on the plane and getting through the airport. I sent in photographs of Riley walking through the airport wearing his dressing gown, and with his ear defenders and weighted blanket.
“One of the reasons for going then was we were going with a family that understands the struggles we have. We went with our friend and she has an autistic son.
“He was on the waiting list for two years and has had a diagnosis of autism by a specialist – he was diagnosed about six weeks ago. They’re also requesting he has an ADHD assessment as well.
“We put our hands up, we did do it the wrong way. The children have good attendance – Riley’s is 97 per cent at the moment and the only time they are off is due to illness.”
Tammy admitted they “did it the wrong way”
The Lamberts admitted that their four children failed to attend school between April 25 and May 3, 2024. They were fined a total of £407 and also ordered to pay a combined £163 victim surcharge and £120 costs.
The court granted StokeonTrent Live’s request for the Lamberts and Riley to be named. A magistrate told the Lamberts: “It’s important that children attend school, not only for their education but for their social skills.
“If they are not in school they are being deprived of essential skills, not withstanding the difficulties a disabled child will have. While we have every sympathy and acknowledge the difficulties, from what you have told us, the difficulties of having a disabled child, the law is very clear.
“Parents cannot take a child out of school without the prior authority of the child’s headmaster. You were issued with a fixed-penalty notice. You decided not to pay – that’s why you are here.”