The Minister for Education and Skills, Nick McKim, today wished Tasmanian schools students well as they began their first term under the new four-term school year.

Mr McKim said more than 62,000 students are expected to resume school this week.

"It's an exciting time for students - especially those who are starting school for the first time," he said.

"The beginning of Tasmania's first four-term school year gives this moment extra significance, and we've been working to ensure parents, teachers, key groups and the broader community have been kept informed of this important change."

Mr McKim said research had shown shorter terms could offer real benefits for students.

"Research has shown shorter terms can help counteract factors like summer learning loss, and that more frequent and shorter breaks during the winter months could reduce absenteeism," he said.

"I remain convinced the move to the four-term school year will be in the best interests of students' learning and well-being."

The Term dates for 2013 are:

Term 1: 5 February - 19 April

Term 2: 6 May - 5 July

Term 3: 22 July - 27 September

Term 4: 14 October - 19 December

 

SCHOOL FAST FACTS

Number of Government school students in August 2012: State-wide: 62,686 includes 33,152 in primary school, 14,300 in secondary school, 6,779 in combined school, 795 in special school and 7,660* in senior secondary school) 

 

Kindergarten to Year 10 breakdown

South: 25,372

North: 16,539

North-West: 13,115

(*Senior secondary figures include Claremont College, Elizabeth College, Hellyer College, Hobart College, Launceston College, Newstead College, Rosny College and The Don College.  Please note, enrolments at the Polytechnic are not included.)

 

Government Schools:

Primary schools: 131

High schools: 30

District High schools: 25

Special schools: 8

Senior secondary colleges: 8

Polytechnic: 1

(Please note: Accurate figures for the 2013 school year will be available after the official census is conducted).