Cyprus education ministry announces school year schedule and expansion of all-day schools

The Cypriot Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth, led by Minister Athena Michaelidou, has confirmed the start dates for the 2026-2027 academic year. Teachers in secondary education will begin duties on September 1, 2026, followed by primary school teachers on September 7. Classes for secondary, technical, and vocational schools commence on September 7, while primary school students will start on September 14, 2026. The Ministry has defended these dates, noting they are mandated by law rather than arbitrary ministerial decisions.

Simultaneously, the Council of Ministers has approved a significant expansion of the "all-day school" program, increasing the total count from 220 in 2023 to 381 institutions. This initiative, backed by a budget of approximately €6 million, aims to support families and provide skills-based education. Three specific locations—Dasaki Achnas, Deryneia, and Souni-Zanatzia—were granted exceptions for inclusion due to remote status or wildfire impact. Minister Michaelidou emphasized that this represents a substantive improvement in teacher working conditions and operational structure, with new oversight protocols implemented.

Looking ahead, the Ministry continues to evaluate potential changes to the school calendar and daily schedule. Ongoing consultations with the Department of Public Works and other stakeholders are planned, focusing on scientific data and impact studies to address future systemic reforms.