The June holidays will be brought forward, Minister for Education Ong Ye Kung announced in a Facebook post on Apr. 21.

In addition, the third term of school will now comprise of 14 weeks in total, with seven weeks, then a one-week break from July 20-26, followed by six more weeks of school.

Home-based learning should not be extended

In explaining the rationale for MOE's decision, Ong stated that Home-Based Learning (HBL) should not be extended as it is not a prolonged substitute for school but an option to fall back upon for the suspension of schools.

Ong added that as such, "it is better to let everyone have a break from this intense period."

Some topics will not appear in national examinations either

Ong also stated that not all topics commonly taught by schools will appear in national examinations either, in order to reduce the pressure on teacher and students alike.

These topics included "pie charts and volume for PSLE Maths, Organic chemistry and vectors for O level Chemistry and Maths respectively."

Ong explained that this was due to two factors: HBL being slower-paced compared to teaching in a classroom, and the additional one week break reducing curriculum teaching time.

However, these topics will still be taught.

What else will be done during the mid-year holidays?

During the June holidays, Ong added that schools will continue to support students preparing for national examinations.

This includes having the students back in school for face-to-face consultation and coaching them when the Covid-19 situation improves.

Ong also assured that students who are in need of support, such as children of essential workers, can go to school during June holidays.

"They have been coming back to school during the circuit breaker period. Our schools will remain open for them throughout the mid-year holidays, to support them and their families."

Here is his post in full:

Top image from Ong Ye Kung Facebook