Morning assemblies will move indoors during periods of high temperatures, while schools will run reception and orientation programmes throughout the first week of the 2026-2027 academic year, under a Ministry of Education circular.
The circular sets school hours for primary pupils at 7.05am to 12.35pm, while intermediate pupils will finish at 1.15pm. In schools covering both stages, pupils will leave according to their respective stage.
Secondary technical and vocational students will attend from 7.05am to 1.45pm during the morning period, with an evening period running from 2pm to 7.30pm. Students at religious institutes in the intermediate and secondary stages will attend from 7.05am to 1.45pm.
Schools have been instructed to organise welcome and orientation programmes throughout the first week, including introductions to school facilities, staff, support offices and subjects. Special programmes will also be held for first-year primary pupils and their parents.
The ministry also instructed schools to ensure all pupils are assigned to classes, provided with timetables and have their records updated on the school management system by the third week of September. Textbooks must be distributed to all pupils, and shortages must be addressed in coordination with education directorates.
Readiness Checklist
- Indoor assemblies during high temperatures
- First-week reception and orientation programmes
- Facilities and safety systems inspected
- Textbooks distributed before classes begin
- Air-conditioning operated for two weeks before term
