The Minister of Education, Fernando Alexandre, announced this Thursday the creation of a single cycle that covers the first and second cycles, that is, from the first to the sixth year of schooling. This model is described as "unique in Europe" and will be tested starting from the 2027/2028 school year.
The fusion of the two cycles will imply significant curricular changes, greater flexibility between programs among teachers and a reduction of the initial teaching load for first cycle teachers. The goal is to create a more integrated and cohesive educational model.
In an interview with the newspaper Público, Fernando Alexandre explained that this reformulation does not necessarily mean the end of single-teacher instruction, but the first cycle, as it is currently known, will undergo profound changes in its structure and organization.
The minister emphasized that first cycle teachers will have a reduction in their initial teaching load, which represents a significant change in the working conditions of these professionals. This new educational model aims to adapt the education system to the current needs of students.
