UK school holidays 2026–2027 outline the official term dates and holiday periods for schools across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. While each nation sets its own calendar, most follow a structured academic year with defined autumn, winter, spring, and summer breaks.
Because school holidays vary by country and local authority, parents must check the correct regional calendar. This guide provides a clear breakdown of expected 2026–2027 term structures across the UK.
The United Kingdom does not operate a single national school calendar. Instead:
Holiday dates are set by local councils or education authorities. Academies and independent schools may set slightly different dates.
In 2027, Good Friday falls on 26 March and Easter Monday on 29 March.
Scottish schools follow a four-term academic year and typically begin in mid-August 2026.
Scottish term dates differ significantly from England and Wales, particularly regarding summer break timing.
Wales follows a similar structure to England, though exact dates vary by local authority.
Northern Ireland operates a three-term system similar to England but often with slightly different half-term timing.
The following UK-wide public holidays impact school attendance:
Schools remain closed on official public and bank holidays.
In England and Wales, academies and free schools can set their own term dates. Independent schools across the UK may also operate different calendars.
Parents should always:
Across the UK, school attendance is closely monitored. Taking children out of school during term time without approval may result in:
Authorised absence policies vary slightly between nations, but booking travel during official school holidays is strongly recommended.
Knowing UK school holidays 2026–2027 helps families:
Advance planning reduces disruption and avoids compliance issues.
Scotland’s school calendar differs significantly from England and Wales.
Local authorities set their own calendars.
Training days are separate from published holiday periods.
Always verify directly with your child’s school.
Holiday clubs fill quickly, particularly during summer.
Schools in England and Wales typically start in early September 2026, while Scottish schools begin in mid-August 2026.
Good Friday is 26 March 2027 and Easter Monday is 29 March 2027.
In England and Wales, schools usually close in late July 2027. In Scotland, summer holidays begin in late June 2027.
No. Each nation and local authority sets its own term dates.
Academies may set their own calendars and should be contacted directly.
UK school holidays 2026–2027 vary by nation and local authority, but all follow a structured academic framework with defined half-term breaks and longer holidays at Christmas, Easter, and summer.
To avoid attendance issues and scheduling conflicts, always confirm exact term dates with your local authority or individual school before booking travel or arranging childcare.
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