From September 2012 the majority of schools in Cheshire East will operate by a standardised set of school term dates.
The decision to adopt the new system was taken by Councillor Hilda Gaddum, Cabinet member with responsibility for children and families, at her portfolio meeting on July 11th.
It was felt the changes would provide a more even pattern of teaching, improve attendance, help schools and parents plan ahead and help bring school term into line with neighbouring authorities.
Some of the proposals adopted include:
• Where a school is open for part of a week, the school will be open for three or more days to encourage good attendance
• The autumn half term always to be the last full week in October
• The spring half term always to be the third full week in February
• The Easter break will always be the first two full weeks in April and schools will always be closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday.
A full consultation with parents and schools saw a good response with feedback from nearly 900 people, as well as discussions and representations at a number of face-to-face events across Cheshire East.
All were adopted apart from the proposal concerning the Whitsun holiday, where Councillor Gaddum decided to retain the current system whereby primary schools can determine whether to take one or two weeks holiday.
This will be welcome news to many parents at Alderley Edge Primary School where a two week Whitsun break has been enjoyed for many years and this year 35 out of 123 primary schools in Cheshire East exercised that option.
Chris Perry, Headmaster at Alderley Edge Community Primary School said "I am very pleased that Cheshire East Council’s review of school term dates has been concluded and that there will still be an opportunity for schools to choose whether to take a one or two week break for the Whitsun holiday.
"Alderley Edge Community Primary School will continue to take a two week Whitsun break which is popular with many parents. The feedback I have received from parents is that it allows them to take a two week break at a time other than during the busy summer holiday, plus prices are often much cheaper at Whit."
The new dates will apply to all community or controlled schools. However, other maintained schools and academies in Cheshire East will be encouraged to follow the new school calendar wherever possible.
Councillor Gaddum said: "I am pleased that after a thorough consultation process we have agreed on a set of proposals that the majority of parents supported. I think the new system of term dates will have a number of benefits, not least improving the education of children and make it easier for parents to plan their busy lives.
"I would like to thank everyone for their contribution over the past few months."
More details on standardised school terms dates are available on the Cheshire East website.
