Parents, teachers, and learners are already asking about the 2026 School Holidays – South Africa calendar. The Department of Basic Education has released the official school terms and public holidays for 2026. Having these dates on hand makes it easier to plan family travel, book holiday programmes, and prepare for exams.
Below you will find the complete school term dates, holiday breaks, and national public holidays that will affect schooling in 2026.
2026 School Terms
- Term 1: 14 January – 27 March
- Term 2: 8 April – 26 June
- Term 3: 21 July – 23 September
- Term 4: 6 October – 9 December (up to 11 December for educators)
2026 School Holidays
- Term 1 Break (Autumn holidays): 28 March – 7 April
- Term 2 Break (Winter holidays): 27 June – 20 July
- Term 3 Break (Spring holidays): 24 September – 5 October
- End-of-Year Break (Summer holidays): From 12 December 2026 into January 2027
2026 Public Holidays During School Terms
- 1 January – New Year’s Day
- 21 March – Human Rights Day
- 3 April – Good Friday
- 6 April – Family Day
- 27 April – Freedom Day
- 1 May – Workers’ Day
- 15 June – School Holiday
- 16 June – Youth Day
- 9 August – National Women’s Day
- 10 August – Public Holiday (observed)
- 24 September – Heritage Day
- 16 December – Day of Reconciliation
- 25 December – Christmas Day
- 26 December – Day of Goodwill
Why the 2026 School Holidays – South Africa Calendar is Important
Learners look forward to these holidays, while parents use them to arrange trips, childcare, and study timetables. Teachers also rely on the school calendar to plan tests, projects, and sport. Businesses such as tutoring centres, holiday camps, and travel agencies prepare for these busy times too. Having the 2026 School Holidays – South Africa dates ready helps everyone stay ahead.