England’s Euro 2024 final against Spain is set to end later than many young football fans’ bedtimes, prompting some schools to offer a later start on Monday morning. Gary Spracklen, head teacher at the Prince of Wales school in Dorchester, Dorset, has decided to start school at 11am instead of the usual 8.45am to ensure that tiredness doesn’t affect his pupils’ schoolwork. Spracklen expressed his desire for the school to support the national team and join the excitement surrounding the final. He mentioned that not all parents had been given the same time off by their bosses, but he hoped they would take his letter to their workplaces to request a lie-in as well.
Sam Kaye, head teacher at Wooburn Green Primary School in Buckinghamshire, is also offering a “soft start” where pupils can come in until around 10.30am instead of the usual 8.30am. Kaye mentioned that the children were very excited about the final and had been following the Euros, and they even did sweepstakes in some of their classes. The reaction from parents has been positive overall.
However, not all schools have granted their students a later start on Monday. Alison Crawshaw, head teacher at Digby the Tedder County Primary School in Lincolnshire, received letters from students requesting a later start, but she explained that it wouldn’t be fair to authorize late starts for other sporting events. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity.
The possibility of a bank holiday if England wins the Euros has been a topic of discussion among fans. While there have been campaigns for a national bank holiday, there have been no official plans from the government regarding this. One viral video showed a man claiming that “not one person in England” would be going to work if England wins on Sunday.
In terms of previous matches between England and Spain, they have faced each other 27 times. England has won 14 matches, drawn three, and lost 10 against Spain. The upcoming final presents an opportunity for England to add to their tally of victories.
Overall, the decision by some schools to offer a later start on Monday shows the enthusiasm and support for the national team during the Euro 2024 final. It allows young football fans to fully enjoy the match without worrying about being tired in school the next day. The positive reactions from parents and the hope for a bank holiday highlight the excitement and anticipation surrounding the final.