Written question WQ89980
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 8 days
Question
Will the Minister detail who the Welsh Government has consulted regarding the potential mental health implications for school staff of shortening the school summer holidays in Wales?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
Supporting the wellbeing of school staff and learners is a key element under-pinning the proposals set out in the Consultation on the School Year which was published on 21 November and will run for 12 weeks, closing on 12 February 2024.
Research we published earlier in 2023, found that “the wellbeing and fatigue of learners and school practitioners were universally and proactively identified by stakeholders (learners, parents and school practitioners) as the element most negatively impacted by the current school year calendar”. Andrews, G et al (2023).
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 staff. Furthermore, any changes to the school year, would be subject to the consultation findings and any wider concerns will be considered in alignment with the Integrated Impact Assessment (IIA).
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.
(Full Research Report: Andrews, G., Howells, J., KilBride, K., Richardson, M., Wheeler, S., Miller Research, Roberts, M. (2023). Research exploring perceptions and experiences of the current school calendar in Wales. Cardiff: Welsh Government, GSR report number 89/2023 Available at: Research exploring perceptions and experiences of the current school calendar in Wales (gov.wales))