Lazy weekends disrupt pupils’ learning, says headteacher
Teenagers should not be allowed to have Sunday morning lie-ins, according to a headteacher who believes that lazy weekends disrupt learning.
Robert Bell, head of the Consilium Evolve school in Sunderland, said pupils cannot learn properly on Mondays if they have had lazy Sundays.
Mr Bell is encouraging students at the state secondary school to modify their weekend schedules, allowing themselves a “free pass” on Saturday mornings but reverting to early wake-up times on Sundays so that they are sufficiently tired to get a good night’s sleep before school.
“We are cracking the code: Sunday lie-ins are a significant disruptor to students’ sleep patterns and jeopardise a good start to the school week. It’s not about fearing Monday, it’s about nailing Sunday,” said Mr Bell.
“Insufficient sleep can seriously impact learning and, from what we’ve seen, it’s one of the main stumbling blocks. The advantages of a solid night’s sleep are evident: students have a more positive outlook, are more alert and experience a significant boost in memory and focus.”
The school is an “alternative provision” academy for pupils who have struggled in mainstream education.
It is currently hosting sleep clinics with students, parents and staff, working with Kerry Davis, a “sleep practitioner”.
‘Culprit isn’t necessarily the Monday blues’
Ms Davies said: “There is a lot of talk about the importance of ‘sleep hygiene’ and tweaking your sleeping environment and, while these factors are crucial, there’s another element that often gets overlooked.
“In our discussions, a common thread emerged concerning Sunday nights, with students mentioning difficulties sleeping and anticipating the start of the week. Many adults echoed similar sentiments.
“Yet the culprit isn’t necessarily the Monday blues. Instead, let’s focus on Sunday morning.”
Ms Davies went on: “We asked, ‘What time did you wake up? How did you spend your morning? Was it more laid-back than other days of the week?’ Naturally, this can negatively impact sleep pressure, affecting how tired you feel as the day unfolds. A lack of daytime activity can result in feeling less fatigued at night.
“While forcing yourself to sleep at bedtime is a challenge, you can take full control of your morning routine and waking hours. There’s compelling evidence that a well-structured morning routine promotes better sleep.
“Your circadian rhythm appreciates consistency and benefits from clear guidance. It’s essential not to send mixed signals. It’s all about establishing and maintaining a routine.”
