August to October, two week break then October to December, one week break then January to April, two week break then April to July.
Is that standard in Scotland? I know Berkshire tried it some years ago - don't know if they still do it. Shortens the Christmas break but gives longer in October - is that because the weather is better? Also shortens the summer break - which must pressurize families to get their holidays in a shorter period. Who is it popular with - teachers, parents, both or neither?
To be honest, I'm not sure if it is standard across Scotland. The two week October break is a traditional one in these parts - mainly related to harvest activities, it's known here as the 'tattie holidays'. The summer break isn't really affected - still a six week break, extended to seven weeks every five years or so for some reason. I think most parents simply accept them rather than view them as unpopular. There is the usual complaint about having to take summer holidays when it's more expensive, with the odd complaint about duration - most realise that their kids need the extended break. In my experience the complaints usually come from the same source, ie parents who have taken their children out of school two weeks early to take advantage of cheaper fares, effectively meaning that they have to look after their children for eight weeks..... I don't know of too many teachers who complain about the six weeks 'off' in summer - but then it's not really six weeks off, as most spend the first week at school taking advantage of the lack of kids in order to properly clean up/finish off paperwork, then the last week there also preparing for their new class/new term.
Thanks BB - I did not realise the kids still got a 6 week summer hols and thought that might either please or piss parents off. Total term time is the same I guess whether split into 3 or 4.
Off now for a couple of days to the Farne Islands. Men , cameras, B&B, Pubs, boats , birds (feathered), seals, wind, waves, Islands sandwiches etc
Morning all, bright and sunny and a mornings weeding and feeding complete. Interesting the judgement to come out of the European Court. http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-28106900 Although I would support people having the right to do as they wish generally, it should be within the law. There was a big debate here when this law was introduced with a large majority of people in favour. Many people find that without seeing a face it becomes difficult to make proper contact with the individual and to tell just what they are thinking.
