Schools and learning

How are school term dates set?

Before we set term dates, we consult all schools and discuss them with trade unions, professional associations and other LEAs within the region.  

We also take into account national advice given by the Local Government Association and the following principles which have been agreed by the County Working Party on Term Dates (which involves representatives from all key stakeholder groups).

1. The school must be open for 196 days (set by the Local Authority), of which each school must set:
   • 190 days for pupils to attend
   • 5 professional development days
   • 1 day for an occasional holiday
2. The Easter holiday should be the first two full weeks in April.
3. Where possible, the Christmas holidays contains 3 weekends and 2 full weeks
4. There are as many full weeks as possible
5. Holidays (and especially half-term breaks) are aligned as closely as possible with Hertfordshire County Council's  neighbours