Sue and Noel Radford - better known as the stars of 22 Kids and Counting - are making headlines again, but this time it’s not for another jaw-dropping family milestone.
The parents of 22 children recently landed in court after taking several of their youngest out of school for a lavish Disney World vacation that reportedly cost upwards of $70,000.
But how exactly do they afford it?
From Family Fun to Legal Trouble
The Radfords, hailed as the UK’s largest family, jetted off to Florida in April 2025 for a mega family holiday in celebration of Sue’s 50th birthday. Nearly all of their children joined the trip, except for 29-year-old Chloe.
However, the family’s Instagram-worthy getaway quickly turned into a courtroom affair.
Upon their return, the couple was summoned to Preston Magistrates’ Court for failing to ensure the regular attendance of four of their school-aged children between March 24 and May 1.
They were each found guilty and fined £65 ($87) per child, along with £118 ($158) in court costs—totaling £378 (about $244).
Under UK education laws, unauthorized term-time absences are rarely tolerated.
Government guidelines clearly state: “A holiday is generally not considered an exceptional circumstance. You cannot usually take your child away during term time.” Schools and councils have the authority to fine or even prosecute parents for non-compliance.
A $70K Celebration in the Sunshine State
Despite the court case, there’s no denying the Florida trip was a grand celebration. According to reports, the Radfords spent a staggering $35,245 on flights alone for their massive brood and a few partners.
Sue documented the Disney adventure on Instagram, sharing family moments filled with character meet-and-greets, rollercoaster rides, snacks, and fireworks at the iconic theme park. While the trip brought plenty of memories, it also raised eyebrows - not just for the cost, but for the timing.
The Radfords had previously admitted to “feeling the pinch” financially, with Sue even telling The Mirror they were scaling down Christmas celebrations to cut back.
And yet, they managed to pull off a Disney World vacation that would be out of reach for many families.
How Do the Radfords Afford 22 Kids and a Disney Vacation?
The Radford family has built a financial ecosystem around their fame. In addition to starring in their Channel 5 reality series, 22 Kids and Counting, Sue and Noel run the successful Radford’s Pie Company, which has operated out of Lancashire since 1999.
Their bakery business supplies baked goods locally and across the UK through online orders.
The family's website explains: “We have owned our own lovely bakery since 1999 which is how we manage to provide for (and feed) our huge and expanding family as well as for the local people of Heysham and Morecambe.”
The Radfords also earn money through social media partnerships, thanks to their sizable online following.
Their YouTube and Instagram presence frequently features sponsored content, product endorsements, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their supersized household.
UK School Attendance Laws: What Parents Should Know
While the Radfords aren’t the first parents to face fines over unauthorized school absences, their case has reignited debate around term-time travel.
Under current rules, UK parents must obtain permission from schools for absences during the academic year. Penalties for violating the rules include:
- Fines: £80 ($107) per child, rising to £160 ($215) if unpaid within 21 days.
- Parenting Orders: Court-mandated classes for parents.
- Education Supervision Orders: Involves council oversight to ensure school attendance.
- School Attendance Orders: Requires proof of enrollment or homeschooling within 15 days.
Starting with the 2024–2025 academic year, each parent can receive up to two fines per child within a three-year period before court proceedings are initiated.