A two-week October half-term has been confirmed for community and voluntary controlled schools in Surrey for the 2026/27 academic year, before reverting to the traditional one-week break the following year. The decision comes after Surrey County Council (SCC) consulted schools and received mixed feedback.
Details of the Change
Typically, the October half-term lasts one week. However, for the 2026/27 academic year, schools in Surrey will enjoy a two-week break. This extension was initially considered for permanent adoption, but plans were abandoned after headteachers expressed unease. In the 2027/28 academic year, the break will return to one week, with the summer term shortened by one week to compensate.
Helyn Clack, SCC Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning, stated: "Surrey County Council seeks the views of all school and settings in Surrey each year when determining academic term dates. While feedback received in 2025 pointed towards a preference for a two-week autumn half term, as reflected in the 2026/27 academic year term dates, it was clear from feedback obtained in spring 2026 that schools wanted the option to revert to a one-week autumn half term."
Reasons for Reversion
School leaders commented that a one-week break was better for children's learning and attendance, as well as for the wellbeing of staff and students. SCC echoed this sentiment, stating that the shorter break was deemed "better for children's learning and attendance, as well as for the wellbeing of staff and students."
Broader Debate on School Calendars
The decision has reignited discussion about the structure of the school year. Prof Lee Elliot Major, from the University of Exeter, co-authored a report suggesting that school summer holidays should be shortened. He said: "At a time when we are increasingly concerned about educational inequality, holiday hunger and the rising cost of childcare, it makes sense to revisit assumptions about the school year. The six-week summer holiday was designed for a very different era. The evidence suggests there are educational benefits to a shorter summer break, particularly for children who are most at risk of falling behind. The broader question of whether our school calendar remains fit for modern society is one that deserves continued debate."
Impact on Affected Schools
The change applies only to community and voluntary controlled schools in Surrey, which are under the local authority's control. Other schools, such as academies and free schools, may set their own term dates. The two-week break in 2026 will affect thousands of pupils and their families, potentially impacting childcare arrangements and holiday plans.
