Planning for Edinburgh school holidays? You’re in the right place! At Calendar Times UK, we understand how crucial it is to stay organized, whether you’re a parent, student, or traveler. Knowing the school term dates for Edinburgh helps you plan childcare, family activities, or even a well-deserved break.
In this guide, we’ll break down the Edinburgh school holidays, including key dates for the autumn term, winter break, Easter holidays, and summer holidays. Plus, we’ll share tips to make the most of these breaks. Let’s dive in and make your planning stress-free!
Overview of Edinburgh School Term Dates
The Edinburgh school holidays follow a structured academic calendar, typically divided into three terms: autumn, spring, and summer. Each term includes breaks like the October half-term, Christmas holidays, and Easter holidays, with the academic year starting in August and ending in June.
Edinburgh School Holidays 2025/26
Autumn Term 2025
- Start Date: Wednesday, 14 August 2025
- October Half-Term Break: Monday, 13 October 2025 – Friday, 20 October 2025 (pupils return on 21 October)
- End Date: Friday, 20 December 2025
Winter Term 2025/26
- Start Date: Tuesday, 7 January 2026
- February Mid-Term Break: Monday, 10 February 2026 – Friday, 14 February 2026
- End Date: Friday, 4 April 2026
Spring Term 2026
- Start Date: Tuesday, 22 April 2026
- Easter Holidays: Monday, 7 April 2026 – Monday, 21 April 2026
- End Date: Thursday, 26 June 2026
Summer Term 2026
- Start Date: Tuesday, 22 April 2026
- Summer Holidays Begin: Friday, 27 June 2026
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In-Service Days (Staff Training Days)
Always confirm specific in-service day Edinburgh dates directly with your child’s school, as these staff-only days can vary between the primary school holiday and the secondary school holiday. Remember that when the council says “holiday dates inclusive,” pupils return to school the following day.
Public Holidays in Edinburgh 2025/26
Public holidays like May Day (5 May 2025) and Victoria Day (19 May 2025) may align with school breaks, offering extended family time.
Edinburgh School Holidays 2026/2027
Autumn Term 2026
Start Date:Â Wednesday, 12 August 2026
October Mid-Term Break: Monday, 12 October 2026 – Monday, 19 October 2026 (pupils return on 20 October)
End Date:Â Friday, 18 December 2026
Winter Term 2026/27
Christmas Holidays: Monday, 21 December 2026 – Tuesday, 5 January 2027
Start Date:Â Wednesday, 6 January 2027
Spring Term 2027
February Mid-Term Break: Monday, 15 February 2027 – Friday, 19 February 2027
Good Friday School Holiday:Â Friday, 26 March 2027
End Date:Â Friday, 2 April 2027
Summer Term 2027
Start Date:Â Tuesday, 20 April 2027
May Day Bank Holiday:Â Monday, 3 May 2027
Staff-Only Day (In-Service):Â Tuesday, 4 May 2027
Victoria Day Holiday:Â Monday, 24 May 2027
End Date:Â Tuesday, 29 June 2027
In-Service Days (Staff Training Days) 2026/27
A confirmed staff-only day for this academic year is Tuesday, 4 May 2027. However, individual schools may have additional days, so it’s wise to contact your school for their complete Edinburgh school calendar.
Public Holidays in Edinburgh 2026/27
These Edinburgh public holidays are when all schools are closed: Good Friday (26 March 2027), Easter Monday (29 March 2027), May Day (3 May 2027), and Victoria Day (24 May 2027).
Read More: Fife School Holidays
Edinburgh School Term Dates 2025 to 2027
| Term/Holiday Period | Start Date | End Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term 2025 | Wed 13 Aug 2025 | Fri 19 Dec 2025 | |
| October Mid-Term 2025 | Mon 13 Oct 2025 | Fri 20 Oct 2025 | Pupils return 21 Oct |
| Christmas Holidays 2025/26 | Mon 22 Dec 2025 | Mon 5 Jan 2026 | Schools reopen 6 Jan |
| Spring Term 2026 | Tue 6 Jan 2026 | Thu 2 Apr 2026 | |
| Summer Term 2026 | Tue 21 Apr 2026 | Fri 26 Jun 2026 | |
| Autumn Term 2026 | Wed 12 Aug 2026 | Fri 18 Dec 2026 | |
| October Mid-Term 2026 | Mon 12 Oct 2026 | Mon 19 Oct 2026 | Pupils return 20 Oct |
| Christmas Holidays 2026/27 | Mon 21 Dec 2026 | Tue 5 Jan 2027 | Schools reopen 6 Jan |
| Spring Term 2027 | Wed 6 Jan 2027 | Fri 2 Apr 2027 | |
| February Mid-Term 2027 | Mon 15 Feb 2027 | Fri 19 Feb 2027 | |
| Easter Holidays 2027 | Mon 5 Apr 2027 | Mon 19 Apr 2027 | |
| Summer Term 2027 | Tue 20 Apr 2027 | Tue 29 Jun 2027 |
Edinburgh Primary and Secondary School Calendars
While the main Edinburgh School Term Dates are set by the council, there can be small differences between schools. This is especially true for in-service days and the exact school day finish time on the final day of term. Whether you’re planning for primary school holidays or secondary school holidays, the best practice is to use the official Edinburgh City Council website as your main source and double-check with your specific school.
Planning Tips for Parents
Childcare Options
Explore local childcare services or holiday clubs to keep kids engaged during breaks.
Family Activities in Edinburgh
From exploring Edinburgh Castle to enjoying the Royal Botanic Garden, there’s plenty to do during the education holiday periods.
Travel Planning
Book trips early to avoid peak prices, especially during the summer holidays.
Also Read: Dundee School Holidays
How to Stay Updated
For the most accurate Edinburgh school holidays dates, check the City of Edinburgh Council website or contact your child’s school directly.
FAQs
Q1: Can I take my child out of school during term time?
A: It’s generally discouraged, as it may affect their education. Always check with the school first.
Q2: Can I take my child out of school during term time?
A: It’s generally discouraged, as it may affect their education. Always check with the school first.
Q3: Where can I find the official Edinburgh school holidays 2026/27 PDF?
A: The official Edinburgh school holidays 2026/27 PDF is available on the City of Edinburgh Council website. You can also visit Calendar Times UK for a summary of key dates.
Q4: Do independent schools in Edinburgh follow the same holiday dates?
A: Not always. Independent schools may have slightly different term dates or additional breaks. It’s best to check directly with the school.
Q5: What should I do if I need childcare during in-service days?
A: Many local childcare providers and holiday clubs offer services during in-service days. Plan and book early to secure a spot.
Q6: Are there any changes to school holiday dates due to public holidays?
A: Public holidays like May Day and Victoria Day are already factored into the school calendar. However, always confirm with your child’s school for any adjustments.
Staying ahead of Edinburgh School Holidays means less stress and better planning for your family. This guide serves as a reliable Edinburgh school holiday planner. For the most accurate, up-to-date information—particularly regarding staff-only days—always make your final check with the official sources below.
Is this guide helpful? Share it with other parents or leave a comment with your tips! For more updates, visit Calendar Times UK.
