Sophie Hinchliffe, the cleaning influencer known as Mrs Hinch, has hit back at critics who accused her of removing her children from school for a family getaway.
The 36-year-old, who boasts 4.8 million followers on social media, has been posting images from her sunny holiday with husband Jamie and their three boys: Ronnie, six, Lennie, five, and 16-month-old Vinnie.
After receiving numerous messages questioning her decision, Ms Hinchliffe clarified that her older sons remain on their school break.
“Both Ronnie and Lennie are still on school holidays as they have two weeks off at this time of year, not one,” she explained.
The cleaning influencer cleared everything up
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Several of her followers had sent messages querying whether she faced penalties for the trip.
“How do you handle the school fines? I’d love to take my kids out to make memories when we can afford it but daren’t because of the fines,” one fan wrote.
Another commented: “Lucky you can take them out of school. We aren’t allowed for holidays. Enjoy x.”
A third follower asked directly: “Do school allow you to take boys out of school.”
The star was joined by her mum on the holiday
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Someone else noted: “Sophie, does your boys school give out fines if they’re on holiday during term time? I get it it’s cheaper but… shouldn’t they be in school?” (sic)
Despite the majority of her audience enjoying the wholesome family content from the sunshine break, these questioning messages prompted Ms Hinchliffe to address the matter publicly.
While confirming she had not broken any rules, the influencer took the opportunity to share her broader stance on the contentious issue of term-time holidays.
“I’ve never personally agreed with fining parents for taking their children on family holidays during term time,” she stated.
Ms Hinchliffe acknowledged that not everyone would share her perspective but stood firm in her beliefs.
“I completely respect that others may feel differently, but for me, creating memories together as a family is what life is all about. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and that’s simply mine.”
The family holiday holds particular significance as the star’s mother has joined them, following the passing of the influencer’s father, Alan, two years ago.
She shared a photograph on Instagram showing her mum with her three grandsons at their resort, accompanied by a poignant message.
She explained her sons had two weeks off for half-term not the usual one like many other schools
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“Because if you still have your parent, make every single second count. I know how quickly those moments become memories. Happy holiday Mum, your boys love you x,” she wrote. (sic)
The influencer has stepped back from public life since her father passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on April 25, 2024, a month after being hospitalised with respiratory problems.
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