Autumn school breaks are set to begin soon in the educational institutions of the Ukrainian capital. According to the Kyiv City State Administration, capital schoolchildren will return to their classrooms on Monday, November 2, 2026. Amid the full-scale war, this break is designed to provide children not only with a pause in their studies but also with an opportunity to regain strength, focus on safety, and support mental health.

Organization of Safe Leisure and Extracurricular Programs

Kyiv authorities emphasize that each educational institution independently determines its operational format during the holidays, taking into account the current security situation and the needs of students. To ensure meaningful leisure, capital extracurricular education institutions have prepared a large-scale cultural and educational program. In particular, the Institute of Postgraduate Education at the Borys Grinchenko Kyiv Metropolitan University is organizing a Week of Ukrainian Writing and Language, dedicated to the Day of Ukrainian Writing and Language on October 27.

Additionally, the Kyiv Palace of Children and Youth has offered students various initiatives in artistic, scientific, technical, sports, and tourism-local history profiles. The Kyiv Minor Academy of Sciences of Student Youth and the city center for children's and youth tourism have also prepared events. All current schedules and announcements are published online and broadcasted on the First Online Radio "School" (P.O.R.SH.). Parents can consult school practical psychologists if necessary.

Professional Development for Teachers During the Break

Educators are also actively using the autumn break to upgrade their professional qualifications. The Institute of Postgraduate Education at Borys Grinchenko University is holding special full-time and blended training courses for teachers. The program includes activities within the framework of the psycho-emotional renewal initiative "We Will Be Healthy," aimed at supporting the emotional well-being of the teachers themselves.

Participation in such training programs allows educators to exchange professional experience and master relevant working methods in modern realities. Upon completion of the course, all registered and participating educators will receive official standard professional development certificates. Registration and class schedules are available remotely for teachers through digital platforms.

Significance of the Autumn Break and Safety Priorities

Holding autumn breaks in current conditions is crucial for preserving children's mental health and preventing emotional burnout among students. Deputy Head of the Kyiv City State Administration Valentyn Mondryivskyi noted that the city's main task is to create safe and useful conditions for the development of the younger generation. The safety of children and educational staff remains an absolute priority, meaning the format of any event can be promptly adjusted depending on the current situation.