Chennai: The Tamil Nadu School Education Department has announced a 12-day holiday for school students across the state, starting December 24, following the conclusion of the ongoing half-yearly examinations.

The extended break provides students with additional rest, as the usual post-exam holiday period typically lasts only nine days. Half-yearly examinations for the current academic year are already underway in government and aided schools. Exams for Classes 10, 11 and 12 began on December 10, while Classes 6 to 9 commenced their examinations on December 15.

According to the official schedule, exams for all classes are set to conclude on December 23. In view of this uniform completion, the department has decided to grant a continuous 12-day holiday from December 24 to January 4, with classes resuming on January 5.

Traditionally, students in Tamil Nadu are granted a half-yearly vacation immediately after examinations, but the duration in previous years has generally been limited to nine days. This year, the extended holiday aligns with the festive season, including Christmas and New Year, allowing students and families to celebrate without academic pressure.

Officials said the decision was taken to ensure adequate rest and rejuvenation for students, maintain academic calendar uniformity, and help students return refreshed for the next phase of the school year. Parents and students have welcomed the announcement, highlighting the opportunity for family time and preparation for upcoming academic responsibilities.

With schools reopening on January 5, teaching and academic activities will resume as scheduled. The department has urged schools to strictly adhere to the reopening date and implement academic plans promptly once classes resume.

This 12-day half-yearly holiday marks one of the longest post-exam breaks in recent years, combining rest, celebration, and preparation for the new academic session.

IANS