Parents across London could face additional childcare challenges as more schools introduce a two-week October half-term holiday.
The change marks a growing trend among schools in England to extend the autumn break — giving families more flexibility but also creating headaches for working parents who need to arrange cover.
Why the change?
Schools adopting the longer break say it helps reduce teacher burnout and gives pupils a proper rest after the long first half of the autumn term. The October half-term traditionally falls at the end of a gruelling seven or eight-week stretch.
Supporters argue that a two-week break allows families to take holidays outside peak prices and gives children time to genuinely recharge before the run-up to Christmas.
What it means for parents
For working parents, however, the extended break means finding additional childcare — or taking extra time off work. Holiday clubs and childminders often fill up fast, and costs can mount.
Parents are advised to check their children’s school calendar now and plan ahead for the longer break.
A growing trend
The move reflects a broader rethink of the school calendar, with some areas also experimenting with different term structures. Whether the two-week October break becomes the norm remains to be seen — but for now, it’s a change London families need to prepare for.
Check your school’s website for confirmed term dates.
