All schools will be closed Friday, 3 April and Monday, 6 April 2026 as they are bank holidays
All schools will be closed Friday, 3 April and Monday, 6 April 2026 as they are bank holidays

If you’re planning family trips, childcare, or simply trying to stay organised, knowing the England school holiday dates for 2026 makes life much easier. While exact dates can vary slightly by region and school type, the schedule below reflects the standard calendar followed by most schools across England.

Read more: 2026 U.K. School Holidays: Full Calendar of Dates and Key Breaks

Key School Holiday Dates 2026

Here are the main holiday periods you need to know:

Spring Half-Term: 16 February – 20 February 2026

Easter Holidays: 30 March – 10 April 2026

Summer Half-Term: 25 May – 29 May 2026

Summer Holidays: 23 July – 31 August 2026

These dates apply to the majority of community and voluntary controlled schools and are a reliable starting point for planning.

Easter 2026: What to Expect

The Easter break in 2026 runs from 30 March to 10 April, giving families a solid two-week window for travel or downtime.

Two important bank holidays fall within this period:

Good Friday: 3 April 2026

Easter Monday: 6 April 2026

All schools across England will be closed on these days, regardless of local variations.

After the break, students return for the summer term on Monday, 13 April 2026.

Read more: UK Bank Holidays in 2026: Full Calendar, Dates and What It Means

Summer Term and Long Break

The summer term includes a short break before the long holiday:

  • Half-Term: 25 May – 29 May 2026

The full summer holiday typically begins on 23 July and runs until 31 August 2026.

However, some areas may finish earlier. For example, certain schools in Bedfordshire break up around 20 July, so it’s always worth double-checking.

Why Dates Can Vary

Even though there is a national pattern, not all schools follow identical calendars. Differences happen because:

  • Local councils can adjust term dates slightly
  • Academies and independent schools set their own schedules
  • Schools choose their own INSET (teacher training) days

All schools must still meet the requirement of 190 teaching days, but how they organise the year can differ.

Simple Planning Tips

To avoid surprises:

  • Check your child’s school website regularly
  • Confirm INSET days, which are often not listed publicly
  • Book holidays early, especially for summer

Final Takeaway

The England school holiday calendar for 2026 follows a clear structure, with predictable breaks in February, April, May, and summer. Still, small local differences mean it’s always smart to verify dates with your school.

Plan ahead, and you’ll make the most of every school break without stress.