Schools to observe 9-day holiday in February

Schools are preparing for the upcoming mid-term break in February,

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Schools in the UAE are preparing for the upcoming mid-term break in February, with holiday schedules varying across institutions.

The break will begin in the middle of the month, with some schools offering a full week off, from Monday, February 10 to Friday, February 14, creating a nine-day holiday when including the weekends. Other schools will have a shorter, three-day break, from Wednesday, February 12 to Friday, February 14.

A few schools will observe an even shorter break, with just a two-day holiday on Thursday, February 13 and Friday, February 14, leading to a four-day break when combined with the weekend. Students at these institutions will return to classes on Monday, February 17.

Looking ahead, schools are also making adjustments for Ramadan, expected to start on March 1, depending on the moon sighting.

During this time, schools will operate with shorter hours, with educators ensuring that the syllabus is adjusted to maintain a balanced approach to learning.

As part of the flexibility in the academic calendar, schools are required to ensure a minimum of 182 school days for the international curriculum, while still providing short breaks to support student well-being.

At some institutions, the half-term break will extend from Friday, February 14 to Monday, February 17.

Lisa Johnson, the principal of the American Academy for Girls, shared her perspective on the importance of breaks: “We recognise the value of short breaks for students and families to recharge. Research shows that periodic breaks improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being, which is essential for maintaining a balanced and effective learning environment,” she explained.