RCT school holidays 2026–2027 set out the official term dates and scheduled breaks for primary, secondary, and additional support needs schools in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT), Wales. These dates guide when pupils are expected to attend school and when holiday periods occur throughout the academic year.
Understanding the RCT school calendar helps families plan childcare, coordinate annual leave, and arrange travel without disrupting attendance compliance.
Contents
What RCT School Holidays 2026–2027 Mean
Wales follows a three-term academic calendar similar to England. The school year is divided into:
- An autumn term with a mid-term break
- A spring term with a February half-term
- A summer term with a May half-term
Each term has scheduled breaks, including longer holidays at Christmas, Easter, and summer. These dates apply to schools maintained by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. Independent or specialist schools may set different calendars, so always check with your child’s school.
RCT Term Dates 2026–2027
Autumn Term 2026
- Term starts: Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Autumn half-term break: Monday 26 October 2026 to Friday 30 October 2026
- Term ends: Friday 18 December 2026
The autumn term begins after summer and concludes with the Christmas holiday period.
Spring Term 2027
- Term starts: Monday 4 January 2027
- Spring half-term break: Monday 15 February 2027 to Friday 19 February 2027
- Term ends: Friday 26 March 2027
The spring term typically ends before the Easter holiday. In 2027, Good Friday is on 26 March and Easter Monday is on 29 March.
Summer Term 2027
- Term starts: Monday 12 April 2027
- May half-term break: Monday 31 May 2027 to Friday 4 June 2027
- Term ends: Friday 23 July 2027
The summer holiday begins after the final school day in July and continues into August.
Public and Bank Holidays Affecting Attendance
The following public holidays occur during the 2026–2027 school year and affect school closures:
- Good Friday: Friday 26 March 2027
- Easter Monday: Monday 29 March 2027
- Early May Bank Holiday: Monday 3 May 2027
- Spring Bank Holiday: Monday 31 May 2027
Schools in RCT are closed on official public and bank holidays.
Who These Dates Apply To
RCT school holidays 2026–2027 apply to:
- Community primary schools
- Community secondary schools
- Voluntary controlled and aided schools
- Local authority maintained establishments
Academies, Welsh medium schools, foundation, and independent schools may follow different term calendars.
INSET Days and Staff Training
During the school year, Rhondda Cynon Taf schools allocate In-Service Training (INSET) days when pupils do not attend but staff undertake professional development.
Important points:
- INSET days are not included in published holiday periods
- Dates vary by individual school
- Parents should confirm these days with their child’s school calendar
Failing to account for INSET days may result in unexpected childcare needs.
Attendance Rules and Term-Time Holidays
School attendance in Wales is closely monitored. Taking children out of school during term time without approval may lead to a penalty notice or attendance concerns.
Parents should be aware that:
- Term-time holidays are rarely authorised
- Penalty notices can be issued per parent, per child
- Unauthorised absence affects attendance records
Booking holidays during official breaks helps families avoid fines and maintain attendance compliance.
Why Knowing RCT Holiday Dates Matters
Having access to the RCT school holidays 2026–2027 calendar allows families to:
- Plan childcare arrangements in advance
- Coordinate annual leave with employers
- Book travel during official breaks
- Prepare for key assessments and exams
- Schedule extracurricular commitments
Advance planning reduces stress and prevents conflicts between school and family commitments.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
1. Assuming All Schools Follow Identical Dates
Some academies or specialist schools may set their own calendars.
2. Overlooking INSET Days
Training days are separate from term breaks and require planning.
3. Booking Travel Before Confirming Dates
Always verify the term calendar with the school before booking non-refundable plans.
4. Misunderstanding Easter Dates
Easter falls on different dates each year. In 2027, Good Friday is 26 March.
5. Leaving Childcare Arrangements Too Late
Childcare providers fill up quickly, especially during half-terms and summer.
FAQs: RCT School Holidays 2026–2027
When do RCT schools start in September 2026?
The autumn term starts on Tuesday 1 September 2026.
When is the February half-term in RCT?
The spring half-term break runs from Monday 15 February to Friday 19 February 2027.
When do schools break up for summer 2027?
The summer holiday begins on Friday 23 July 2027.
Are bank holidays included in school holidays?
Yes. Schools close on bank holidays such as Good Friday, Easter Monday, and Early May Bank Holiday.
Do academies follow the RCT term calendar?
Academies and independent schools may set different dates, so confirm with the specific school.
Final Thoughts
The Rhondda Cynon Taf school holidays 2026–2027 calendar provides a clear academic year structure from September 2026 to July 2027. With defined autumn, spring, and summer breaks, families can plan childcare, travel, and work commitments with confidence.
Always confirm finalised dates directly with your child’s school, especially regarding INSET days or any adjustments, to avoid attendance problems or scheduling issues.