Schools learn the lessons from lockdown, want to start and finish earlier

A northern beaches high school has proposed ending the school day at 2pm, saying a European model of earlier start and finish times would make students more independent and give teachers more time for one-on-one feedback. But some parents are worried the move would not suit junior school students, who are less independent learners, while the timetable would challenge working parents relying on 3pm public transport. Pittwater High School principal Jane Ferris said compressed timetables introduced during the COVID-19 lockdown had made her reflect on 'the European model', where schools such as Sweden and Germany start around 8am and finish after lunchtime. The school found many students enjoyed having blocks of time to catch up on work or prepare for assignments, while teachers had greater opportunities to give students feedback and engage parents.