A Scottish football fan, Iain Meiklejohn, who cheekily took his 12-year-old son Aleks out of school for what he called an “educational trip through Germany,” has shared updates from their escapades. The duo is currently touring Frankfurt ahead of Scotland’s first match at Euro 2024 against Germany.
The father-son adventure captured public attention after Iain sent an amusing email to Forresters High School in Edinburgh, humorously justifying Aleks’s absence with the promise of an “educational report.”
Exploring Frankfurt’s Highlights
The pair landed in Frankfurt yesterday and wasted no time immersing themselves in the city’s culture. Iain shared their experiences on social media, recounting their day exploring the city’s landmarks.
Here’s what their “educational trip” included so far:
- A visit to the 240-meter-tall Main Tower, offering stunning views of the Frankfurt skyline.
- A lesson in urban geography: Frankfurt is uniquely the only German city with a notable “skyline.”
- Playing football pool, a quirky game that combines football skills and billiards.
- Aleks honing his aim for the “top corner,” showing precision any budding footballer would envy.
A Unique Take on School Absence
Iain’s candid and humorous approach to Aleks’s absence has sparked debate. In his message to the school, Iain assured teachers that Aleks would write a “detailed report” about the trip, complete with the “extreme emotional highs and lows that only a Scotland fan goes through.”
Risks of Unauthorised Absence
While England imposes £60 fines for unauthorised absences, parents in Scotland face a different system. They can receive attendance orders requiring them to justify their child’s absence. Failure to provide an acceptable excuse could result in fines of up to £1,000.
For Iain, the risk is worth it. His son is gaining memories and experiences beyond the classroom, from sightseeing in Germany to learning about its culture.
Passion for Football Travels Far
This isn’t Iain and Aleks’s first football-fueled adventure. The duo attended the FIFA World Cups in Brazil (2014) and Russia (2018), creating a treasure trove of unforgettable memories. However, they weren’t always lucky — a ticket scam kept them from witnessing the iconic final between Germany and Argentina in Rio de Janeiro.
Social Media Cheers Them On
The Meiklejohns’ story has resonated with football fans worldwide. Their blend of humor, love for the game, and dedication to experiencing life outside the classroom has earned admiration.
As Scotland prepares to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign, the father-son duo continues to make the most of their “educational trip” through Germany.
