The Local Government Association (LGA) Standing Committee on the school year meet and make a recommendation for term and holiday dates across the country.  The LGA Standing Committee is made up of representatives of the national executives of all main teacher professional associations and officers of the LGA. 

Local Authorities do not have to abide by their recommendations but most are supportive of a nationally agreed pattern, which still permits local flexibility, as the best route towards harmony and coherence in the establishment of dates.   

The majority of south east local authorities have indicated that they intend to abide by these recommendations, although some may not.

Locally, term dates are consulted on through school and teaching representative bodies before being finalised.