SCE Schools must open for pupils for 190 days in each school year, except in the few cases where an SCE School is dependent upon the facilities of a host school which opens for fewer days in the year and where alternative measures are impractical.
Each school day is divided into two sessions separated by a lunch hour or break. Enough teaching time will be provided to deliver a broad and balanced curriculum that includes the National Curriculum and religious education. In accordance with UK guidelines, SCE schools provide the following minimum weekly lesson times:
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21 hours for pupils in Key Stage 1
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23½ hours for pupils in Key Stage 2
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24 hours for pupils in Key Stages 3 and 4
These times do not include time for collective worship, registration, and breaks. Enough time will be allowed for all of these activities in addition to the minimum weekly lesson time. Details of the start and finish times of school sessions are included in each school’s prospectus.
Changes in the times of school sessions will only be introduced after adequate consultation with parents, school staff, Garrison, or Station transport staff together with the School Governance Committee. At least three months' notice of any changes will usually be given. Changes will not normally take place at times other than at the beginning of the school year.