School summer holidays in Wales could be cut by one week

The Welsh government has put forward plans to cut the summer holidays by a week, but do you think it's a good idea?

School children in Wales could see their summer holidays shortened by a week in plans put forward by the Welsh government.

Politicians argue that the long summer holidays means children are out of learning for too long, it's hard to support those who need it, and it's tough for parents to find childcare for long periods.

Instead that week of holiday would be put somewhere else during the terms, for example having a two-week break in October, as already happens in some parts of England and Scotland.

The public are being asked for their views on these ideas, which could come into action from September 2025.

We want to know what you think of this idea? Do the summer holidays mean too long out of school and away from friends? Would it be better to spread the time off elsewhere around the school year? Or do you like things the way they are?

Take part in our vote and have your say in the comments.

If you cannot see the quiz, click here.

What are the Welsh government's plans?

The Welsh government says students often find it difficult to get back to learning after the long summer break. In particular students from disadvantaged backgrounds and those with additional learning needs (ALN) can struggle.

The plans won't affect the number of school holiday and teaching days.

It has proposed extending the autumn half-term by a week instead, saying research suggested teachers and pupils can find the long autumn term tiring and a fortnight half-term would provide more of a rest.

There are more ideas being discussed too.

The Welsh government is asking for views on their proposed plans to shorten the summer break

The Welsh government consultation will also ask for views on the summer holiday being reduced even further, adding an extra week to the May half-term, to spread breaks out more evenly across the year.

"The long summer break can be a real strain. Families struggle to find childcare over the six weeks, and others struggle with the additional costs long summers bring." said Jeremy Miles, the minister for Education and Welsh language.

"There are plenty of examples of local authorities across the UK changing their school calendar to suit local needs.

"We want to make sure education works best for pupils, teachers, and families. We're looking for people's views on these changes and what it would mean for them."

What's been said about the changes?

The Welsh government has argued some children may find it difficult to get back to learning after the long summer break

Teachers groups have argued that there is no evidence the changes would help children's education and they say there are other more important and urgent issues that need to be looked at.

They also worry that a shorter summer holiday could have an impact on the number of people who want to take on teaching roles in the future.