School holidays in the UK in 2025–2026

UK school holidays vary significantly by region, and for expat parents, knowing the dates in advance is essential for booking flights home, arranging childcare, and planning family time. This guide covers confirmed term dates for 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 across all four nations.

Note: Exact dates vary between local councils and individual schools. Always confirm directly with your child's school.

How the UK School Calendar Works

Each of the UK's four countries sets its own school calendar independently — there is no single national timetable. Key differences to know:

• Scotland returns earliest, typically mid-August — about 3 weeks before the other nations.
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland start in early September.
• Northern Ireland has shorter half-term breaks but a longer summer holiday, and observes St Patrick's Day as a school closure.
• International schools generally follow the local calendar but may have longer Christmas and summer breaks — check with your school directly.

2025–2026 School Holidays

England

Wales

Scotland

Northern Ireland

Additional Closures 2025–2026

Some national holidays cause school closures but only apply to specific nations:

2026–2027 School Holidays

England

Wales

Scotland

Northern Ireland

Confirmed dates for 2026–2027 have not yet been published by Northern Ireland's Education Authority. Check back closer to the start of the academic year or visit your local council's website.

Additional Closures 2026–2027

UK Bank Holidays That Close Schools

Good Friday and Easter Monday are observed across all four nations. Others are country-specific:

Term-Time Absence Rules

Taking children out of school during term time is not permitted in England and Wales without headteacher authorisation — and holidays are rarely approved as a valid reason.

Penalty fines for unauthorised absence in England:

• £60 per parent, per child if paid within 21 days
• £120 per parent, per child if paid between 21 and 28 days
• Repeated offences can result in prosecution and a criminal record

Scotland and Northern Ireland operate similar rules with different fine structures. Always check with your local education authority.

Tips for Expat Parents

Childcare during school holidays

If school holidays clash with your work schedule, the UK offers a range of options:

• Holiday clubs — run by many schools, leisure centers, and community organisations
• Childminders — registered carers who look after children in their own home
• Au pairs / nannies — useful for longer breaks, especially summer
• Daycare and nursery centers — for younger children

Your local council's Family Information Service can tell you what's available in your area and whether you qualify for government-funded childcare support.

Summer camps in the UK

The UK has a strong summer camp culture with options ranging from outdoor adventure to arts, sports, and tech. Popular options include:

• Camp Beaumont
• Camp Cooper
• Camp Crusoe
• Camp Wilderness
• Mill on the Brue
• PGL Adventure Camps
• SuperCamps
• Young Film Academy