UK School Holidays: Term Dates for Primary and Secondary Schools

UK school holidays are set locally by each Local Authority (council), but follow a broadly consistent national pattern. Below are typical durations for state schools in England (Wales, Scotland, NI vary slightly).

Primary Schools

• Summer: 6 weeks (late July – early September)
• Christmas: 2 weeks (late Dec – early Jan)
• Easter: 2 weeks (March/April)
• October half-term: 1 week
• February half-term: 1 week
• May half-term: 1 week

Secondary Schools

• Summer: 6 weeks
• Christmas: 2 weeks
• Easter: 2 weeks
• October half-term: 1 week
• February half-term: 1 week
• May half-term: Often not observed in secondaries (exam prep); some have a shorter break or INSET days instead.

Key Notes

• Academies/free schools can set their own dates (many follow LA pattern).
• INSET days (5/year): Teacher training—school closed to pupils.
• Scotland: Earlier summer start (late June), different half-terms.
• Northern Ireland: Longer summer (8-9 weeks), shorter Christmas/Easter.
• Always check your specific school/council website for exact dates.