The Isle of Wight Council is considering changes to the autumn half term holiday from 2023/24 onwards.
Before making any changes the council is asking schools, parents and island residents to give their views about the school holiday calendar.
Traditionally been one week
The autumn half term holiday in October on the Isle of Wight, as in most other areas of the country, has traditionally been one week.
In 2017 the council consulted local people about a change to the school holiday calendar and, as a result, decided to extend the autumn half term from one week to two weeks, and reduce the summer holiday accordingly.
Changed from 2018
From 2018 to 2021 a two-week half term was adopted, with the summer holiday one week shorter.
In 2022, following consultation with schools, the half term holiday will revert to being one week long.
The council is keen to hear views on these changes, and a consultation has been launched, with the possibility of returning to a two-week autumn half term as one of the options.
Andre: We want to get this right for the Island
Cllr Debbie Andre said,
“I know the timing of the school year is important, and can have a big impact on how children learn, as well as the way families plan their lives.
“Change to the autumn half term is something that has been particularly significant in the last few years, and we want to get this right for the Island.
“The change to a two-week half term was disrupted by the pandemic in 2019 and 2020.
“There have also, as a result of the pandemic, been changes in parental working patterns and shifts in the work-life balance of many households.
“We’re listening to the views of families and pupils, schools and local communities before we make any changes; and we are actively seeking those views through a new consultation.
“So I encourage everyone to fill in our short online survey – we really want to hear from Island residents.”
The survey will be open until 18th March 2022.
Paper copies of the survey are available from libraries if you are unable to complete one online.
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
Image: Deleece Cook under CC BY 2.0
