Schoolchildren in Finland currently start their summer holidays in late May or early June, but that could change.
Education Minister Anders Adlercreutz (SPP) has proposed pushing the summer break to mid-June to better align with schedules elsewhere in Europe.
The debate is not new. Supporters of a later start to the summer holidays argue that it would make it easier for parents to align their children's break with their own vacation schedules. They also point to the weather, noting that August is often warmer than June.
Teacher trade union OAJ is less convinced, warning that a longer spring term could leave pupils more tired and make learning more difficult.
April break breaks up term
Adlercreutz said the spring term could be cut into three parts, with a new one-week holiday introduced in April.
He justified the reform by pointing to Finland's different rhythm compared with the rest of Europe, particularly in the Nordics. The school year ends considerably earlier in Finland than in Sweden and Norway.
"I think many people's jobs are closely tied to those in the wider world. A later summer break could make everyday life easier for families," he told Yle. "It's more difficult for parents to take their annual leave in June compared to August," he added.
His ministry has now drafted a plan that it's sending out to interest groups for consultation.
But the process is still at an early stage. The proposal has not been discussed with the opposition and was not included in the government programme, meaning it will require consensus within the coalition.
Adlercreutz has suggested that 2028 would be the earliest realistic timeline for any school holiday changes to happen.
