Catholic Education WA (CEWA) will be moving toward the implementation of a three-week mid-year break for its 150 schools from the 2027 school year.
The three-week mid-year break is part of CEWA’s ongoing commitment to the wellbeing of staff and students.
To help with the implementation of this initiative some schools may be required to make small adjustments to their term calendars and/or school timetabling as required.
Students will continue to have the same number of contact hours across a school year as they currently do.
This decision follows engagement with principals and significant research into how this initiative will positively impact teaching, learning, and wellbeing.
Former CEWA Executive Director Wayne Bull, who retired last week, said as with all CEWA’s decision making, they have kept what is best for our students at the heart of this initiative.
“We strongly believe that introducing a longer mid-year break will give our students the opportunity to rest ahead of a busy second semester, while not compromising their academic outcomes,” Mr Bull said.
“Some Catholic schools in WA have already been trialling this initiative, with insights suggesting it leads to better attendance rates and improved overall wellbeing,” he concluded.
CEWA invites feedback regarding this initiative from students, staff, parents and community members.