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Isle Of Wight School Holidays: Extra Christmas Day Among Changes Proposed

An extra day of Christmas holiday and a one-week October half-term is on the cards for staff and pupils at Isle of Wight Council-run schools.

Proposals have been put forward which would make students' last day at school before breaking up for Christmas, December 21 - instead of December 22.

A change is proposed to the 2021-22 term calendar because of the additional bank holiday on June 3, 2022, which will celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The date falls within May half term (30 May- 3 June).

A consultation featuring 31 schools found the majority (23) prefer a two week Christmas break.

Some, including Gurnard Primary and Nettlestone and Newchurch Primary, have asked for permission to use the extra day at their disposal, however.

A recommendation, set to go to the council's Cabinet next week, also proposes reverting back to a one-week October half term.

Councillor Debbie Andre, who leads on children's services, education and skills, said:

“After nearly 18 months of a global pandemic, I’m sure Island families will be very keen to be able to look towards the future and plan some precious, quality time with their children.”

The proposed term dates are available on the council’s website: https://iow.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=145&MId=528&Ver=4 .

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