Controversial school term-time plans have been approved by the Isle of Wight Council.
A delegated decision has been taken by Cabinet member in charge of education, Councillor Paul Brading, today (Thursday).
It means that pupils and staff will again see a two-week October half term, as well as an 11-day Christmas holiday.
The latter has provoked criticism from a number of Island schools, who claim the break is too short and does not allow for recovery time.
The Isle of Wight Council says the changes provide 'balanced half terms and holiday periods.'
Commenting on his decision, Councillor Brading said:
"When I looked at the 2021/22 year I asked officers for two requirements, one was to retain the two weeks October half term and the second was five complete weeks in the summer.
"This second point is vital for parents with school children, helps businesses plan holiday rotas, and is right for staff to have a complete five week break. During the statutory consultation 12 schools submitted comments. Many mentioned the length of the Christmas break only one said we should revert to one week October half term.
A proposal to start the school year on 31 August 2021, but have schools take a day as a non-teaching day to move the start to 1 September, was rejected.
The following term-times for 2021/22 have been approved:
- Autumn 2021 – Tuesday, August 31, to Wednesday, December 22
With a half term from Monday, October 18, to Friday, October 29. - Spring 2022 – Tuesday, January 4, to Friday, April 8
With a half term from Monday, February 21, to Friday, February 25. - Summer 2022 – Monday, April 25, to Friday, July 22
With a half term from Monday, May 30, to Friday, June 3.