Children across the UK have now returned to school after the summer holidays came to an end on September 2.
Students, teachers and parents may have already started counting down the days until the next break. And after half-term, they’ll have to wait several weeks until the next academic break.
But when exactly do schools break up for the autumn half-term and Christmas holidays? Find out in our guide below.
Remember that school term dates can vary by local council and individual schools may vary.
When is the October half-term in 2024?
Autumn half-term commences on Monday, October 28 and lasts until Friday, November 1.
This period covers Halloween, but it unfortunately doesn’t cover Bonfire Night on November 5. However, this shouldn’t be a problem as Bonfire Night fireworks take place in the evenings, giving children enough time to change and watch the fireworks.
When do children break up for the Christmas holidays in 2024?
Children will break up for the Christmas holidays on Monday, December 23. Most children will be back at school on Monday, January 6.
Bank holidays during the 2024-2025 school year
Most bank holidays have already taken place during the 2023-2024 school year – only the Christmas bank holiday on December 25 and Boxing Day on December 26 are left for this year, which fall during the school holidays.
In terms of the 2025 academic year, the upcoming bank holidays in England and Wales include New Year’s Day on January 1, Good Friday on April 18, Easter Monday on April 21, early May bank holiday on May 5, and Spring bank holiday on May 26. The majority of these bank holidays will take place during the school holidays.
Once again, make sure to check with your child’s school for its exact term dates, as holidays and inset days can vary. The information should be available on the school’s website or your local council’s website.
