When Do School Holidays Start in the UK?

Planning family activities or needing to book holidays around the school term dates? At Calendar Times UK, we’ve got you covered! Wondering, “When do school holidays start in the UK?” This guide breaks down summer school holidays, Easter breaks, and regional variations for England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

We provide reliable dates for school terms and holidays. Plus, download our printable calendar UK to stay organized with UK School Holidays and key dates!

When Do School Holidays Start?

If you’re wondering when school holidays start across the UK in 2026, the answer varies by nation and local authority. Generally, schools follow a three-term pattern with breaks in between. Most English and Welsh schools begin their summer holidays in late July 2026, while Scottish schools break up earlier in late June. Northern Ireland typically starts summer break in early July. For specific dates like South Lanarkshire School Holidays or Renfrewshire school holidays, always check with your local council as academies and independent schools may set their own schedules.

Overview of UK School Holidays

The UK school year follows a three-term structure with breaks in between. The autumn term runs from September to December, including an October half-term week. The spring term covers January to April with a February break and Easter holidays. Finally, the summer term lasts from April to July, ending with the long summer holidays. While this pattern applies nationwide, dates vary—especially in Scotland, where terms start and finish earlier than in England and Wales.

The UK academic year consists of three main terms with breaks in between:

• Autumn Term (September to December)—Includes October half-term
• Spring Term (January to April)—Features February half-term and Easter break
• Summer Term (April to July)—Ends with the long Summer Holidays

Each region sets its own school holidays and term dates, so check our calendar for the UK for precise schedules.

School Term Dates for 2026

Here are the general school term dates for 2026 across the UK. Remember that these are typical patterns – always verify with your local authority for exact dates.

School Term and Holiday Dates

Understanding school term and holiday dates helps with long-term planning. In England, maintained schools follow dates set by local authorities like Peterborough City Council, where the 2026 summer term runs from 13 April to 20 July, with half-term 25-29 May. In Scotland, councils such as Glasgow set their own schedules – pupils return after Easter on 20 April 2026 and finish for summer at 1pm on 25 June. Northern Ireland’s Department of Education confirms summer holidays begin on 1 July 2026. Wales maintains consistency across most counties, with summer 2026 ending 20 July.

Summer Holidays School 2026

The Summer Holidays School break is the longest of the year, perfect for family time and travel. In England, summer 2026 typically runs from around 22-23 July to early September. Scotland finishes much earlier – pupils in Glasgow break up on 25 June 2026. Northern Ireland begins summer on 1 July 2026, while Wales ends the summer term on 20 July. These dates make Scottish schools ideal for early family activities and booking holidays before peak prices hit. Remember that North Lanarkshire School Holidays and other Scottish council dates may vary slightly.

Key School Holiday Dates for 2026

Planning your year? Here are the key school holiday dates for 2026 across the UK:

England:

• Spring Half Term: 16-20 February 2026

• Easter Holidays: 30 March – 10 April 2026

• Summer Half Term: 25-29 May 2026

• Summer Holidays: from 23 July 2026

• Autumn Half Term: 26-30 October 2026

• Christmas: from 21 December 2026

Scotland:

• Spring Half Term: 16-20 February 2026

• Easter Holidays: 30 March – 10 April 2026

• Summer Half Term: 25-29 May 2026

• Summer Holidays: from 21 July 2026

• Autumn Half Term: 26-30 October 2026

• Christmas: from 21 December 2026

Wales:

• Spring Half Term: 9-13 February 2026

• Easter Holidays: 3-17 April 2026

• Summer Holidays: from 27 June 2026

• Autumn Half Term: 12-23 October 2026

Northern Ireland:

• Spring Half Term: 12-13 February 2026

• Easter Holidays: 2-10 April 2026

• Summer Holidays: from 28 July 2026

Read More: Renfrewshire School Holidays

When Do School Holidays Start in the UK in 2026?

For parents asking when do school holidays start in the UK in 2026, here’s a quick summary. England and Wales typically begin summer break in late July – around the 22nd-23rd . Scotland starts much earlier, with most schools closing in late June (Glasgow finishes 25 June 2026) . Northern Ireland falls in between, with summer starting 1 July 2026. Easter dates also vary: England’s Easter holidays run 30 March-10 April, while Wales takes a longer break 3-17 April. Always check local council websites for precise dates.

When Do School Holidays Start in Summer 2026?

The million-pound question: when do school holidays start in summer 2026? In England, most schools break up around 22-23 July 2026 and return in early September . Scotland leads the way with an earlier finish – Glasgow pupils end on 25 June , while North Lanarkshire closes on the same date. Wales follows England’s pattern, finishing around 20 July. Northern Ireland starts summer on 1 July. These early Scottish dates are perfect for beating the holiday crowds and securing better deals on travel and accommodation.

Teacher Training Days (INSET Days)

Teacher Training Days (INSET Days) are when schools close for staff development while pupils stay home. Most schools have five INSET days per academic year. These dates vary by school – for example, a Bexley school lists INSET days on 1-2 September 2025, 24 October 2025, 13 February 2026, 27 March 2026, and 20 July 2026. Nottingham City Council recommends 27 July 2026 as an INSET day. Always check your school’s website for their specific INSET schedule, as they’re not standardised across councils. Missing these can throw off childcare plans!

How to Check Your Local School Holiday Dates

The most reliable way to check your school term and holiday dates is through your local council website—just search for your area (like South Lanarkshire School Holidays). School websites also publish term dates, and many offer printable calendars.

At Calendar Times UK, we recommend bookmarking for quick access to UK printable calendar resources that combine school holidays with UK bank holidays for complete family planning.

Planning Around School Term

Smart planning makes all the difference during school holidays. For travel, book flights and accommodation early to beat the price hikes during peak periods like the summer holidays and school holidays. Many parents arrange holiday clubs or childcare months in advance. Consider visiting attractions mid-week when they’re less crowded. Our top tip? Use our printable calendar UK 2025 to map out all the term dates and UK bank holidays—perfect for coordinating work schedules with school breaks.

• Family activities: Museums and attractions get busy—book ahead!
• Childcare: Secure holiday clubs early
• Travel: Avoid peak Summer holiday prices by booking in advance

FAQs

Q1. How many days do children attend school each year?

Pupils are required to attend school for 190 days per academic year, while teachers work 195 days, which includes five INSET training days.

Q2. Do all UK schools have the same term dates?

No—community and voluntary controlled schools follow local authority dates, but academies, free schools, and faith schools can set their own schedules.

Q3. What are INSET days and when do they happen?

INSET (training) days are when schools close for staff development. Each school chooses five days per year, so dates vary – always check your school’s website.

Q4. Can I take my child on holiday during term time?

Parents do not have the right to take children on holiday during term time. You may be fined unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Q5. Where can I find my local school’s exact term dates?

Check your local council website (e.g., “South Lanarkshire School Holidays”) and your child’s school website, as they publish confirmed dates, including INSET days

Q6. What dates are UK school holidays?

They vary by nation and local authority. England/Wales typically run late July-early September, Scotland late June-mid August, and Northern Ireland early July-late August.

Q7. What are the Scottish school holidays?

This tradition dates back to different academic calendars and allows time for exam marking before the August holidays.

Q8. Do all schools in the UK have the same holidays?

No—academies, private schools, and some local authorities may set different dates. Always check with your specific school.

Bookmark Calendar Times UK for the latest school term and holiday dates!