CHENNAI: The Directorate and School Education and the Directorate of Private Schools have strictly ordered the schools across the State not to engage students in special classes of any kind during the Christmas holidays, which begin today and go on till January 4.

As per the circular from the directorate, “The government, government aided and private schools have been granted holidays till January 4 (Sunday) after the completion of the half-yearly examinations. Schools will function as usual from January 5 (Monday). All school principals are requested not to conduct special classes for students during the half-yearly holidays.”

Additionally, the department has directed a few measures to parents to engage students in other activities besides academics such as music, dance, and paintings, reading books by joining local public libraries, and also engaging in adventure activities under parental supervision.

Though as per the academic schedule, the half-yearly exam was scheduled in December last week, the calendar was tweaked due to the upcoming assembly elections. So, the third term for 2025-26 academic year will likely begin earlier than the scheduled date.

Meanwhile, the Class 12 board exam will be held from March 2-26 and for Class 10, it’s from March 3-27 in TN. Results for both classes will tentatively be released on May 8 and 20, respectively.