South Africa School Holidays (2026)

Education in South Africa is compulsory for children aged 6 to 15. From grade 3 onwards, students are required to study a second approved language. Most schools follow a January to November academic calendar and adopt a four-term system. Holidays usually last for two to three weeks in between each term, while there is a four to five-week break in December after the end of the last term.

School holidays in South Africa are observed across the country. School dates may vary from one school to another. For more updated information, you can contact the schools directly for more accurate school holiday announcements.

When are school holidays in South Africa?

What are the other holidays in South Africa?

Human Rights Day
Human Rights Day in South Africa commemorates the establishment of the South African Human Rights Commission which aimed to promote respect, protection, development and the attainment of human rights in the country.

Good Friday
Good Friday in South Africa marks the death and crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Family Day
Previously known as Easter Monday, Family Day is celebrated a day after Easter Sunday and celebrates the resurrection of Jesus after his death on Good Friday. It is one of the most important Christian holidays.

Freedom Day
This public holiday celebrates the first democratic post-apartheid non-racial elections that were held in 1994 and saw Nelson Mandela elected as the President of South Africa.

Worker’s Day
Worker’s Day in South Africa commemorates the efforts played by the labor movement, trade unions and the communist party in the struggle against apartheid.

Heritage Day
The South African Heritage Day is dedicated to celebrating the people’s heritage, the diversity of their beliefs and to remember the struggle against apartheid.

Christmas Day
Christmas Day in South Africa celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in accordance with the Gregorian Calendar.

For more details, please click here.