Ministry Adjusts Vacation School Dates And Sets Holiday Learning Fees For Exam Classes
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has revised vacation school dates for August 2025 and set new fees for examination classes, citing the need to help schools catch up with syllabus coverage while easing pressure on parents’ pockets.
Holiday Lessons Set For 10 Days Only
In a circular dated 6 August 2025, Permanent Secretary Mr Moses Mhike confirmed that schools are allowed to run holiday classes from 8 to 21 August 2025—but strictly for Grade 7, Form Four, and Upper Six pupils.
“The design of the annual school calendar takes into consideration the need for pupils to rest and enjoy the balance between study and play,” Mr Mhike said.
He added that some schools may have struggled with syllabus coverage during the term and needed the extra time to prepare their exam candidates.
“We recognise that schools have different challenges that may have affected their syllabus coverage and necessitated the conduct of vacation school for examination classes,” he stated.
However, classes will not take place on Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day, which fall during the period. Schools are permitted to use weekends to complete the 10-day session.
Standardised Fees Introduced
The ministry also announced fixed charges for the vacation school programme. These will be paid either in United States dollars (US$) or the equivalent in Zimbabwe Gold currency.
- Primary schools (Grade 7): US$2 (approx. R37) per learning area
- Secondary schools (Form Four): US$3 (approx. R56) per learning area
- Upper Six pupils: US$5 (approx. R93) per learning area
- Boarding students: Extra US$5 (approx. R93) per day for food and accommodation
“All must be cognisant of the need to prevent the ever-escalating cost of teaching and learning for parents, particularly in view of the disadvantaged pupils who otherwise would not benefit from extra support,” Mr Mhike said.
Strict Supervision And Fee Allocation
To ensure quality and accountability, the ministry directed that all holiday classes must be supervised by Inspectorate staff, District Literacy Coordinators, and Remedial Tutors.
“The Ministry looks forward to improving pupil performance through the running of the vacation school as it will offer a focused environment for candidates to prepare for their upcoming examinations,” said Mr Mhike.
The funds collected—excluding boarding fees—must be distributed in the following way:
- 30% for utilities and stationery
- 20% for administration
- 50% for teacher appreciation
Students are required to attend in full school uniform, and teachers must adhere to professional dress standards.
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