In many countries, there is a policy discussion in the education sector about whether the duration of school holidays in primary and secondary schools should be reconsidered. While many people believe that the long summer break would play an important role in students’ development in several aspects, others raise practical concerns to support shortening summer holidays. This essay will provide the reasons and relevant examples in both views.
On the one hand, determining the summer break duration in primary and secondary schools for two months or longer can provide many benefits for both students and educational institutions. The direct benefit for students, the long school holidays allow students to explore novel experiences in different environments rather than solely spend their whole time in a classroom. For example, children would have the great opportunities to attend a summer camp which effectively encourages their living skills. In addition, utilising long holidays with their parents and siblings could strengthen family bonds which is essential for the teenagers. Furthermore, during the school holidays would be the most appropriate period for teachers in preparing study plans and for school directors in improving learning facilities as well.
On the other hand, there are arguments in favour of shorter school holidays because it is undeniable that the longer school holidays can cause many problems as well. The main reason is that it requires more time and responsibilities from parents during the period. The problems are obvious particularly in the family where the parents have to work all day and in a poor family.
However, although long school holidays might bring about more burdens for low and middle income families, its benefits would outweigh the drawbacks if the governments and related agencies are able to provide inclusive opportunities for all students such as summer activities and learning space as a public welfare.