Written question WQ89816
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 7 days
Question
What consideration has the Minister given to families concerned about the potential rising cost of holidays abroad, in light of the proposals to change school holidays?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
Recent Welsh Government research indicates that for lower socioeconomic groups, family holidays during school holidays are often “not seen as possible due to costs” (Research exploring perceptions and experiences of the current school calendar in Wales, 2023, p 21).
The Consultation on the School Year was published on 21 November and will run for 12 weeks, closing on 12 February 2024. It is important to note that proposals set out in the consultation are not about reducing school holidays and there will be no changes to the overall number of holidays for learners and teachers.
We would not wish to prejudge the findings of the consultation. Any changes would therefore be subject to the findings and any wider concerns will be considered in alignment with the Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA). Furthermore, any changes would not be implemented until the 2025/26 school year, enabling an opportunity to consider holiday arrangements.
This work is being carried out in collaboration with Sian Gwenllian, the Plaid Cymru Designated Member, as part of the Co-operation Agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru.