Decision details

The Local Authority is required to consult annually and determine the School term dates for Community, Voluntary Controlled and Community Special Schools under Section 32 of the Education Act 2002.

That the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families approves:-

that the recommended School Calendar for 2017/18 Academic Year fixes an Easter Break in the first 2 weeks of April.  (Appendix C)

This option was supported by an overwhelming number of respondents to the consultation (71%)

It is recommended that Option 2 (Appendix C of the report) be approved as the model school calendar for the 2017/18 academic year.  This model fixes Easter at the first two weeks in April 2018.  The calendar applies to all Community schools, Voluntary Controlled Schools and community Special Schools.  Voluntary Aided Schools, Trusts and Academies that are their own Admission Authority are recommended to adopt the model calendar to promote consistency across the City.

The purpose of the extensive consultation was to invite opinion and comment from all stakeholders. There is overwhelming support for Option 2 from those consulted and approval of this Option demonstrates that the Authority has listened to the opinions of those who responded to the consultation.

Option 2 was originally considered as described in paragraph 3 of the report.  This option proposed a two week October half term break.  To achieve this the summer break would have to be reduced by one week from six to five.  This option was not supported by schools at the seminar because it would extend the final summer term by one week.