Reform of the school year

From 21 November 2023 to 12 February 2024, we ran a public consultation on the structure of school year regarding maintained schools in Wales. We asked what options could work better for learners, school staff and parents. 

Please note: maintained schools are schools which are mainly funded by a Local Authority. This includes maintained nursery schools, maintained primary, middle and secondary schools and Pupil Referral Units.

A Summary of Findings report was published on 21 May 2024. 

The Welsh Government will look to progress a school year model with: a 5-week summer break, a 2-week break in the Autumn and the flexibility to decouple the Easter end of term break from the Easter festival. The implementation timing of this, is to be confirmed but will be taken forward in discussion with partners and stakeholders. 

Although there are similarities in the school calendars of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, they are not the same. It should also be noted that Scotland operates a different term time structure entirely. Any changes to the school year, will apply in Wales only.

Exploring Reform of the School Year

Ministerial Oral Statement

Exploring Reform of the School Year: consultation documents

Consultation summary of responses and Consultation Documents.