Parents and teachers in England: share your views on two-week half terms

While it used to be standard for state schools in England to have one-week half terms, some pupils and staff are being given a fortnight off.Councils set the holiday dates for state schools in England, while academies, free schools, foundation schools and voluntary-aided schools can set their own. Most schools still opt for one week, but more around the country are moving to, or considering the move to, a two-week break.In the past, parents with young children have the said the longer holiday places an extra burden on them to find childcare. In Wales, plans to extend the half-term and reduce the summer term were shelved in 2024 after opposition from the teaching unions.We would like to hear from parents and teachers about their thoughts and experiences of two-week half terms. Do you think they are a good idea or not? Do you have a fortnight off? Do you have any concerns?Share your experienceYou can share your response using this form.Your responses, which can be anonymous, are secure as the form is encrypted and only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will only use the data you provide us for the purpose of the feature and we will delete any personal data when we no longer require it for this purpose. For alternative ways to get in touch securely please see our tips guide.NameWhere do you live?Tell us a bit about yourself (e.g. age, background, what you do) OptionalShare your views on two-week half terms. Are they a good idea or not?Please include as much detail as possible. Are you experiencing / have you already experienced a two-week half term? If so, tell us how you're managing it OptionalPlease include as much detail as possible. Do you have any concerns? OptionalPlease include as much detail as possible. If you are happy to, please upload a photo of yourself here OptionalPlease note, the maximum file size is 5.7 MB.Choose fileYour contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian.Email address Your contact details are helpful so we can contact you for more information. They will only be seen by the Guardian.You can add more information here OptionalIf you include other people's names please ask them first.By submitting your response, you are agreeing to share your details with us for this feature.If you’re having trouble using the form click here. Read terms of service here and privacy policy here.