Birmingham’s schools are divided over how to handle the early morning start following England’s World Cup last-16 match against Mexico, set to kick off at 1 a.m. on July 6. Several schools across the Midlands are permitting late arrivals, acknowledging the late-night match, while others emphasize the importance of maintaining regular attendance and school hours.
At least three schools in and near Birmingham have announced they will open late to accommodate pupils who might stay up late to watch the game. However, some schools in the city are instead encouraging children to attend on time, offering incentives to motivate punctual attendance.
Oasis Academy Short Heath in Erdington is one such school, introducing a “Golden Ticket Prize Draw” for students who arrive punctually. Although the exact prize remains undisclosed, the school communicated via Facebook:
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“Dear Parents and Carers, with the England v Mexico football match taking place late Sunday night/Monday morning, we understand some children may be tempted to stay up late. However, we encourage all pupils to be in school on time and ready to learn. Every child who arrives on time will receive a Golden Ticket and be entered into a special prize draw! Thank you for supporting your child’s regular attendance and readiness for learning.”
St Paul’s Catholic Primary School in Kings Norton has planned a “fun day” to engage students, including opportunities to watch match highlights, dress in football kit, and participate in a football match competition for the class with the best attendance. They have also arranged alternative activities like arts and crafts for children who prefer them.
The school’s Facebook post reads: “We look forward to supporting England together and enjoying a fun day at school! As the match ends late, we do not expect children to stay up to watch it. A good night’s sleep is crucial for children’s wellbeing, concentration, and learning. We recommend they catch up on the match or highlights before school if they wish.”
While some schools accommodate late arrivals, Birmingham City Council emphasizes the importance of regular attendance, stating: “We expect all schools to open as normal and for our children to be in school so learning is not impacted.”
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson echoed this sentiment, telling the Press Association, “It’s a late game, but children can be in school the next day.”
Interestingly, England coach Thomas Tuchel has taken a more lenient stance, encouraging parents to “write an excuse for school and let them watch football.” He added, “There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big match in four days and we need the support of everyone, especially the children.”