Surrey County Council Shortens Summer Holidays, Extends Autumn Break

Surrey Schools to Shorten Summer Holidays, Extend October Break Surrey, England – In a move that's sparking debate across the county, Surrey County Council has announced a plan to adjust the school holiday calendar. Starting next year, summer holidays will be shortened by five days, with the extra time added to the October half-term break. This decision, based on a survey showing support from 60% of local schools, aims to balance the needs of families and the academic year. "It's a compromise," explains a Surrey County Council spokesperson, "We recognize the importance of summer holidays, but also the benefits of a longer break in the autumn." The reaction from parents has been mixed. While some appreciate the longer autumn break, others express concern about the shorter summer, particularly for families who plan vacations around the traditional holiday schedule. Students also have varying perspectives, with some favoring the change and others expressing disappointment. The council is currently engaging in discussions with schools and parents to address concerns and ensure a smooth transition to the new calendar. The council hopes the change will provide a better balance for families and students, and improve the effectiveness of the academic year. This initiative follows similar adjustments in other UK regions, demonstrating a growing trend towards modifying traditional school holiday patterns. The council's decision highlights the ongoing conversation about optimizing school calendars to better suit the needs of the modern family and the educational goals of the students.