Due to the exceptional amount of weather-related disruption we have faced this year, the ESF-wide Professional Development (CPD) day that was scheduled for 23 February has been converted back into a regular teaching day. This decision was not taken lightly, as we value the time our teachers have to work collaboratively with colleagues across the foundation, but it will allow us to maximize our students' face-to-face time in the classroom following substantial weather disruption.
Details of the Calendar Change
The following change will take effect immediately:
- Original Date (PD Day): Monday, 23 February, 2026.
- New Status: Monday, 23 February, 2026, will now be a standard school day for all students.
As a result, after the Lunar New Year holiday, Monday, 23 February, will now be the first day of the new half term for students, rather than Tuesday, 24 Februaryh, as originally planned.
Support and Accommodations
We appreciate that any calendar change during the school year may present scheduling challenges for some families.
Absence Accomodations: We are aware that some families may have already booked longer holiday stays across the Lunar New Year break. As the 23rd February will be an additional day of learning, should a student be unable to attend school on this date, this will not adversely affect their attendance record. If a student is unable to attend school on this date, this will not affect your child’s attendance figures for the year.
Learning Continuity: To support the continuity of learning for all students, learning resources will be posted online for those who are unable to attend in person. Please note that we will not be able to offer hybrid lessons on the day.
We are incredibly glad that we've been able to take this measure to directly respond to parent concerns about missed schooling.
Finally, Happy Diwali to those of you who celebrate - we have had a joyous, vibrant day of celebrations here in school, which are featured further in this week's Explorer.
Thank you as always for your ongoing support, and have a wonderful weekend ahead!