Two schools in the Birmingham area have decided to delay their start times on Monday, July 6, after England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico kicks off at 1am. The game, which could extend to around 3:30am if it goes to penalties, has prompted headteachers to acknowledge that pupils will have been up late supporting the national team.
Delayed starts at Q3 Academy and Streetly Academy
Q3 Academy in Great Barr has told students to arrive at 10:45am, with tutor time beginning at 10:50am. Streetly Academy has confirmed a 10:30am start. In a statement, Q3 Academy said: "As many of our students, families, and staff will be supporting England in the World Cup in the early hours of Monday, we would like to wish the national team the very best of luck and hope everyone enjoys what promises to be a memorable occasion."
The school added: "In recognition of the exceptionally early kick-off and to support the wellbeing of our community, we will operate a delayed start on Monday. We believe this later start will help students arrive rested, ready to learn, and able to take part fully in lessons, rather than struggling through the day tired." For younger students whose parents cannot make alternative childcare arrangements, limited supervision will be available from 8:45am.
National debate over school attendance
The decision has sparked a national debate about whether children should miss school after late matches. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson told the Press Association: "It's a late game, but children can be in school the next day." Asked if children could watch and still attend school, she said: "Well, I think they can, yes, but it's for parents to decide how they manage this, and of course, it depends on the age of your children, how they feel. But this is about decisions for individual families."
Tuchel's plea to parents
England coach Thomas Tuchel had earlier encouraged parents to "write an excuse for school and let them watch football." He added: "Come on. There's so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big match on in four days and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children."
England secured their place in the last 16 after a win against DR Congo in Atlanta on July 1. The match against Mexico is set to be a late-night affair for fans in the UK, with many schools now making allowances for tired students.
