Question to the Department for Education:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made, if any, of the effects of reducing the school week from five days to four; whether they are aware of any schools in England Wales seeking to introduce a four day week; and if so, whether they are empowered to do so.

Education is a devolved matter, and the response will outline the information for England only.

A review into the current use of time in schools and 16 to 19 providers in England has been undertaken, and the results were published on 4 November 2021 here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/review-of-time-in-school-and-16-to-19-settings. The review found that more time can improve pupil and student outcomes, but the extent of any benefit is dependent on how well the time is used. We need to ensure that all children are spending quality time in school, where they can access the full breadth of the curriculum and extra-curricular activities to maximise their overall experience and give them the best chance to succeed, regardless of age, background or ability.

The review did not assess the effects of reducing the school week from 5 days to 4. We are not aware of any schools in England that are seeking to introduce a 4 day week.

Schools should organise the school day and school week in the best interest of their pupil cohort, to provide them with a full time education suitable to their age, aptitude, and ability. The structure of the school week should not be the cause of inconvenience to parents and it is unacceptable for schools to shorten their school week unless it is a direct action to support and enhance pupils’ education.

The Education (School Day and School Year) (England) Regulations 1999 require all maintained schools to be open to educate their pupils for at least 380 sessions (190 days) in each school year. Academy trusts (of academies and free schools) are not bound by these regulations.