Reflection on a new school calendar: exploring the 7/2 rhythms and the future of school vacations

IN BRIEF Evolution of school holidays in France, with ongoing reflections. Proposal for the school rhythm 7/2: seven weeks of classes followed by two weeks of vacation. End of long class periods, particularly between Christmas and Easter. Change in the structure of holiday zones: moving from three to two zones. Easter holidays considered for May, while maintaining 8 weeks in July and August. Recommendations submitted to the Ministry of National Education after consultation with several stakeholders. No implementation planned before the start of 2027.

The question of the school calendar in France generates passionate debates, particularly around the proposed new school rhythm, known as 7/2. This model consists of an alternation of seven weeks of classes followed by two weeks of vacation, a structure aimed at optimizing children’s learning. While the commission responsible for examining this reform has delivered its recommendations, the implications of this new calendar on school holidays and the organization of school time deserve to be explored in depth.

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Towards a 7/2 Rhythm: Foundations of the Reform #

At the heart of the reflections lies the idea that the current school rhythm, which imposes prolonged periods of classes, could be revised for the well-being and effectiveness of students. The alternation of seven weeks of classes, followed by two weeks of rest, is considered to avoid long terms that are sometimes too taxing for young students. This change aims to promote better concentration and smoother learning by dividing school time into more digestible segments.

Uniqueness of Zones: From Three to Two School Zones #

Another important aspect of the reform concerns the restructuring of school holiday zones. Currently, metropolitan France is divided into three zones (A, B, and C), which complicates the synchronization of holidays. With a return to two zones, each could benefit from a more harmonized calendar, thus reducing overlaps and allowing for better management of holiday periods. This change could bring greater stability for families and schools.

Rethinking Spring Holidays #

The commission’s proposal also suggests shifting spring holidays to May. By moving this break, the goal is to shorten the learning period that precedes the summer holidays, thereby bringing a healthier balance between school work and rest. While some zones would be on break, others would continue their classes, allowing for a smoother rotation of holidays, which could also benefit the tourism sector.

The Impact of Maintained Summer Holidays #

Despite the proposed changes throughout the school year, the commission emphasizes the importance of maintaining eight full weeks of vacation in July and August. This summer period is crucial for both family life and the economic sector. Far from being negligible, summer time allows children to recharge before returning to school, while also giving parents the opportunity to spend precious moments with their children.

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Recommendations Still to be Confirmed #

Currently, the recommendations issued by the commission aim to initiate a broader discussion on these reforms. The Ministry of National Education has indicated that the development of a new school calendar is still in a reflective state, and any implementation should not occur before the start of 2027. Thus, the current calendar for the upcoming school year remains unchanged, but the debate is open on what the future of school holidays and educational rhythms in France could be.