Surrey's schools are facing a significant change in their academic calendar, with the much-debated two-week October half term being axed for the 2027/28 academic year. This decision comes after a thorough review of the current system, with a focus on the needs of students, teachers, and the overall educational experience. The Surrey County Council (SCC) has decided to revert to a one-week October half term, citing a range of compelling reasons.
One of the primary concerns raised by headteachers was the impact on children's learning and attendance. Longer summer terms and shorter holidays have been linked to increased fatigue among students, which can hinder their ability to retain information and perform well academically. This is particularly concerning for children in reception, who are still settling into a new school environment.
The SCC's decision to prioritize a one-week half term is a response to the feedback received from schools and their leaders. Helyn Clack, the SCC Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning, emphasized the importance of listening to the voices of those directly involved in the education system. She stated that the 2025 feedback pointed towards a preference for a two-week autumn half term, but the 2026 spring feedback revealed a strong desire to revert to a one-week break.
This shift in the academic calendar is not limited to community and voluntary controlled schools. Other state schools in Surrey, including academies, free schools, foundation, and voluntary aided schools, have the autonomy to set their own term dates. However, the SCC's decision will likely influence these schools' choices, as they often look to the council's recommendations for guidance.
The debate surrounding the length of school holidays and the potential benefits of a shorter summer break is not new. Prof. Lee Elliot Major, from the University of Exeter, has been a vocal advocate for revisiting the traditional school calendar. He argues that the six-week summer holiday was designed for a different era and that a shorter break can have educational advantages, especially for children at risk of falling behind.
The implications of this decision extend beyond the classroom. The longer summer term and shorter holiday can impact childcare costs and address the issue of 'holiday hunger,' where children from disadvantaged backgrounds may not have access to adequate nutrition during the break. This is a critical issue that the SCC is addressing by making these changes.
In conclusion, the decision to scrap the two-week October half term in Surrey is a significant development in educational policy. It highlights the importance of listening to the concerns of educators and students and adapting the curriculum to better serve the needs of modern society. As Prof. Major suggests, the school calendar should be a topic of ongoing debate to ensure that it remains fit for purpose and supports the well-being and academic success of all students.
