Are two-week half-terms a blessing or a curse?
Summary
Some schools in England are moving from a one-week to a two-week autumn half-term break. This change is aimed at improving health and reducing absences among students and staff. Parents and school staff have mixed views on the change, with some appreciating the break while others face challenges with childcare.Key Facts
- Unity Schools Partnership has adopted a two-week half-term break in its eight primary schools in Norfolk, following a successful trial.
- The partnership seeks to improve well-being and reduce illness-related absences.
- Some schools are shortening the summer holiday to accommodate the extended autumn break, but Unity’s schools are adjusting in other ways like adding extra school hours.
- A consultation found that a majority of parents (58%) and staff (89%) supported the longer half-term.
- While some parents struggle with arranging childcare, others find benefits, such as cheaper holiday options.
- The school trust plans to provide additional childcare during the second week of the break.
- Parents have shared different experiences, with some finding the two-week break helpful and others needing to adjust their schedules.
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