Billie Faiers and Greg Shepherd have sparked criticism after taking their two children out of school for a luxury holiday in Abu Dhabi. The couple, who recently announced they are expecting their third child, documented their trip on social media, showing daughter Nelly, 7, and son Arthur, 5, enjoying business class on an Etihad flight.
Greg shared a video of the family boarding the plane, relaxing in the lounge, and Arthur falling asleep with headphones on. The family was also presented with a personalised cake reading 'Welcome to Abu Dhabi'. Greg captioned the post: 'Let the Abu Dhabi adventures begin… Our 1st time flying with @etihad great service from start to finish #etihad'.
Fans quickly questioned the decision to take the children out of school during term time. One commented: 'Kids spend more time on holiday than in school', while another asked: 'Do you just pay the school fine for taking kids out in term time?' A third fumed: 'Is this now? Aren’t the kids missing school?'
However, some followers defended the trip, arguing that family time is more valuable. One wrote: 'Family time is so much more valuable enjoy making memories and do some school work away they are both in primary school not like it’s high school where exams are done.' Another added: 'To me Family time, family memories and being present with those you love, comes above all else.'
The couple have not commented on the backlash, but Greg liked a comment from a follower who said they had taken their son out of school and noted that not all schools fine, and that the fine is less than holiday costs during school breaks. The follower also suggested the trip may have been gifted due to the tag of Etihad.
