Welcome to Calendar Times UK, your trusted source for accurate UK school holiday dates. For families across the Midlands, planning the year is crucial. This comprehensive guide details the official Birmingham school holidays, as set by the Birmingham City Council.
Let’s dive into the essential Birmingham school holiday dates to make your Birmingham holiday planning for families seamless and stress-free.
Birmingham School Holidays: Full Term Dates
Staying informed on the official Birmingham City Council school term dates is the first step to a well-organized year.
Birmingham School Holidays 2025/26
| Term | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term 2025 | Monday 1 September 2025 | Friday 19 December 2025 |
| Spring Term 2026 | Monday 5 January 2026 | Friday 27 March 2026 |
| Summer Term 2026 | Monday 13 April 2026 | Monday 20 July 2026 |
Birmingham School Holidays 2026/27
| Term | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term 2026 | Tuesday 1 September 2026 | Friday 18 December 2026 |
| Spring Term 2027 | Monday 4 January 2027 | Thursday 25 March 2027 |
| Summer Term 2027 | Monday 12 April 2027 | Wednesday 21 July 2027 |
Birmingham School Holidays 2027/28
| Term | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Term 2027 | Thursday 2 September 2027 | Friday 17 December 2027 |
| Spring Term 2028 | Tuesday 4 January 2028 | Friday 7 April 2028 |
| Summer Term 2028 | Monday 24 April 2028 | Friday 21 July 2028 |
Read More: Renfrewshire School Holidays
Birmingham Teacher Training Days (INSET Days)
Teacher Training Days (INSET Days) are set by individual schools, not by the local council. Schools typically have 5 INSET days per year. You must check your school’s own website, newsletter, or parent communications for their specific dates, as these are additional closure days for pupils.
Key Dates for Specific Birmingham Schools
Many schools in Birmingham have their own unique calendars. Always verify term dates and INSET days directly with:
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Your child’s school website or office.
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Academy trusts (e.g., Star Academies, ARK, E-ACT).
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Faith schools (e.g., St. Thomas More Catholic School, King Edward VI Foundation schools).
Bank Holidays and School Closures
All Birmingham schools are closed on national bank holidays. These typically include:
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New Year’s Day
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Good Friday
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Easter Monday
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Early May Bank Holiday
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Spring Bank Holiday
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Summer Bank Holiday
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Christmas Day
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Boxing Day
Half-Term Breaks in Birmingham (By Season)
Parents often plan trips and activities around half-term dates. Here’s a quick look at seasonal breaks:
- October Half-Term: Late October, just before the winter term.
- February Half-Term: Mid-February, breaking up the winter months.
- May Half-Term: Late May, offering families an early summer getaway option.

Family Holiday & Childcare Planning in Birmingham
With the school academic year dates in hand, you can master your childcare planning during holidays—book holiday clubs and childcare well in advance, especially for the long summer break. If you’re considering a trip during school holidays, booking early often secures better prices; however, be aware that traveling in peak times is more expensive.
For staycation ideas, Birmingham and the wider West Midlands offer plenty, from exploring the Black Country Living Museum to walking in the Lickey Hills.
Things to Do in Birmingham During School Holidays
Wondering about family activities in Birmingham? You’re spoiled for choice! The city is bursting with attractions in Birmingham during school holidays.
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Indoor Fun:Â Think of the Thinktank Science Museum, the Sea Life Centre, or a spot of ten-pin bowling.
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Outdoor Adventures:Â Cannon Hill Park, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and Sutton Park are perfect for letting off steam.
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Creative & Cultural:Â The Library of Birmingham often hosts free events, and the Ikon Gallery offers fantastic family workshops.
Also Read: North Ayrshire School Holidays
Back-to-School Preparation for Parents
The end of the holidays means it’s time for back-to-school preparation. A little planning can ease the transition. A week before the term starts, begin adjusting bedtimes. Use your daily planner to schedule a school uniform shopping trip to Birmingham to avoid the last-minute rush. Labeling everything is a top school uniform planning tip to save money and stress later!
FAQs
Q1. Are school holiday dates the same for every school in Birmingham?
No. While most follow the Birmingham City Council dates, academies, free schools, and voluntary-aided schools can set their own term dates and INSET days.
Q2. Where can I find the most official term dates?
The primary source is the Birmingham City Council website. Search for “school term dates” on www.birmingham.gov.uk.
Q3. When are the main school holiday periods?
The main breaks are October half-term (1 week), Christmas (approx. 2 weeks), February half-term (1 week), Easter (2 weeks), May half-term (1 week), and summer (6 weeks).
Q4. Do schools close for bank holidays?
Yes, all schools in Birmingham are closed on national bank holidays.
Q5. What should I do if my child’s school dates differ from these?
Always prioritise the calendar published by your child’s own school, as it is the definitive source for their specific term dates and INSET days.
Q6: How do Birmingham term dates compare to other regions like Fife or Glasgow?
A: UK school holiday dates vary by local authority. Fife School Holidays and Glasgow School Holidays in Scotland often differ significantly from dates in England, with different start/end times and holiday lengths.
Bookmark this page, share it with other Birmingham parents, and make the most of your well-deserved breaks