The Ministry of Education has announced that the proposed education reforms for Grade 6, originally set to commence in 2026, have been postponed to 2027 following a Cabinet decision. Consequently, schools are instructed to revert to the previous syllabus and timetable regulations for the current academic year.
In a circular issued today (January 14), Education Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa directed all Principals to suspend the recently issued timetable instructions and instead prepare class schedules based on the 2006 regulations.
Key Time Schedule & Important Dates
Principals and education authorities are advised to adhere to the following schedule for the immediate implementation of these changes:
- January 13, 2026: Cabinet decision reached to postpone Grade 6 reforms to 2027.
- January 14, 2026: Official circular (ED/09/12/06/14) issued notifying schools of the change.
- January 21, 2026: Date by which the new school timetables (based on Circular 2006/09) must be implemented in schools.
Further Instructions
- Timetable Preparation: The instructions issued under Circular 34/2025 (dated 2025.11.04) are suspended. Schools must now use Circular 2006/09 (dated 2006.03.07) to prepare timetables for Grades 6–13.
- School Hours: Opening and closing times remain unchanged and should follow the guidelines of Circular 2006/26.
- School Terms:
- 1st Term: Proceeds as per the letter dated 2025.12.09.
- 2nd & 3rd Terms: Will proceed according to Circular 30/2025.
- Examinations: There is no change to the school exam dates previously declared by the Department of Examinations
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