Eight NSW schools will participate in a pilot program to extend the school day to better suit the needs of students and parents.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said the trial would not extend teaching hours but partner the schools with community organisations, businesses and sporting clubs to offer a range of activities for kids at school outside the standard 9am-3pm school day.
“We know it can be a challenge for families juggling the competing demands of work and family life around standard school hours, and this pilot is about exploring options to help with that,” Mr Perrottet said on Wednesday.
The pilot will run in terms three and four.
“We want to offer greater support and comfort to parents, knowing that their kids are safe and happy taking part in a homework club in the school library, a dance class in the school hall or soccer practice on the school oval,” he said.
Education Minister Sarah Mitchell said the traditional school day was already being reimagined by many establishments to better meet the needs of students and their community, with breakfast clubs, study centres, and fitness and arts programs.
“The reality is that the traditional school day, like the 9 to 5 workday, is a 20th century concept which may not be the best model for 21st century families, schools and the community,” she said.
AAP
