School terms ‘need reform after shifts in travel patterns’ 

The UK Outbound Travel Group has issued a fresh plea for reform of the school calendar as more families seek shoulder-season holidays due to climate change.

 

The lobbying group – which includes bodies such as the Advantage Travel Partnership, InteleTravel and Aito, The Specialist Travel Association – is urging the Department for Education to work with travel industry representatives, teacher unions and parent groups to develop transition plans.

 

In an opinion article published on travelweekly.co.uk, Julia Lo Bue-Said, Advantage chief executive and group spokesperson, said: “As temperatures soar in Mediterranean hotspots, we’re witnessing a fundamental shift in travel patterns. Data shows the first signs of growth in shoulder-season bookings, with families increasingly seeking cooler climates during what were once peak summer months.”

 

More: Comment: School calendar must be changed to allow better family travel

 

She said destinations such as Croatia, Cyprus and Egypt are experiencing rising demand in May and October, with bookings up by 30%-40% in some cases compared with pre-pandemic levels.

 

“Many British families face an impossible choice: pay premium prices for crowded, uncomfortably hot destinations during the six-week summer break or remove children from school during term time and face potential rising fines,” she added.

 

“Some regions have already pioneered extending October half‑term [from one] to two weeks while shortening summer holidays.

 

“Academies, which represent about 50% of schools, already have the flexibility to set their own holiday timetables. This means comprehensive reform wouldn’t require legislation affecting every school, although it may mean new guidelines for academy schools.”

 

She noted some hotels in popular destinations charge double their off-peak rates in summer.

 

“A more balanced redistribution of school holidays could help smooth demand curves, alleviate pressure on overstretched travel infrastructure and create a more efficient tourism ecosystem,” she continued.

 

“Travel during [shoulder seasons] may also bring more-affordable opportunities for families.

 

“It’s time for comprehensive reform that puts families first and acknowledges the realities of climate change and modern travel patterns.”

 

More: Comment: School calendar must be changed to allow better family travel