The changes are being introduced from September at Long Stratton and North Walsham high schools.

Under the new arrangements, the autumn half term will be extended from one week to two.

To ensure the overall time they spend in class does not change, pupils will stay at school for 10 minutes longer each day throughout the year.

The schools - which are both run by the Enrich Learning Trust - say the changes are intended to reduce pupil sickness absence, give teachers a longer break and allow parents to take advantage of cheaper, off-peak holidays.

James Gosden, executive headteacher of North Walsham High School (Image: Supplied) James Gosden, executive headteacher at North Walsham, said: "Over the past few years, we have had numerous requests for holidays which we can not authorise.

"This would provide an opportunity for parents and carers to access cheaper holidays."

The extra 10 minutes a day works out at just under 31 hours over the year - the........

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