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The positive impact of longer school days at school in Cyprus
From 10 to 14 March 2025, UNESCO conducted an assessment of the pilot initiative. This assessment forms part of support provided by the European Union via the Technical Support Instrument (TSI) to Cyprus in partnership with UNESCO. The purpose of the support is to develop an operational framework for the implementation of all day schooling at the lower secondary education level.
Traditionally, schools in Cyprus operate on a half-day schedule, running from 7:30 a.m. to 1:35 p.m., without offering a school lunch. Since November 2024, an optional afternoon programme that extends the school day from 13:35 to 16:30 with lunch, has been piloted at Agios Dometios .
The afternoon session includes homework support in Greek and mathematics, life skills and creative time to enrich students鈥 learning experience. Many of the students come from non-Greek speaking households with low-socio-economic status.
Interviews with students, teachers, parents, and the school principal highlight the value of the initiative, particularly its impact on academic improvement. 鈥淪ince the afternoon programme started, I鈥檝e seen a huge improvement in some kids' Greek comprehension, which has boosted their performance and understanding across all subjects,鈥 explained a Greek language teacher (morning programme).
Students鈥 socioemotional skills and wellbeing seem to improve. Students who had previously spent their afternoons alone at home, relying on screens for entertainment now engage in structured, interactive activities that promote teamwork, creativity and self-expression.
Teachers note greater student participation. 鈥淎t the start, many students were hesitant to engage. Now, I see a big difference in how they interact, [how they now] trust me and their peers and express themselves. In my class they have the time and space to understand and process their feelings,鈥 indicated a Theatre teacher (afternoon programme).
Many parents expressed appreciation for the academic support and the safe, nurturing environment the programme provides for their children. They appreciate it as a more accessible alternative to private tutoring and private extracurricular activities, which are common in Cyprus but financially inaccessible for many families. One parent shared: "The programme is a life saver. It helps my child with homework, keeps them engaged, and ensures they are in a safe place while I manage the household and care for my other children."
Students who once viewed school as stressful now look forward to attending. 鈥淚 get tired sometimes, but it鈥檚 okay. At home I used to do nothing and just play on my phone. I love staying at school for creative activities. I want to join the afternoon programme next year too,鈥 said a young student.
With growing support from teachers, parents and students alike, the all-day schooling initiative is proving to be a meaningful step forward for the Cyprus鈥 education system.
