Seven weeks on, two weeks off: Parents and teachers call for school reform

Parents' associations and several teaching unions have penned an open letter calling for a reform of Belgium's school calendar - 30 years after the idea was first floated.

The letter, published in Le Soir, recommends a more regular schedule made up of seven weeks of lessons, followed by two weeks of holiday, throughout the academic year.

The Christmas holidays would remain in place, but some holidays would therefore have to move. Existing public holidays on All Saints' Day, carnival and Easter would still be observed. The summer holidays would be shortened from nine weeks to seven.

Le Soir notes that the proposal first appeared in its pages back in September 1991. Psychologists claim the 7+2 rhythm is better for a child's health and improves their ability to concentrate.

The proposal has the backing of the King Baudouin Foundation, the League of Families and the federation of parents' associations Ufapec.

Other signatories on the letter include the Committee of Francophone Students, the League for Children's Rights and three teaching unions: SEL-Setca, CSC and CGSLB.