When do schools break up for Christmas 2026 in England?

Most council-run schools in England break up on Friday 18 December 2026 and return on Monday 4 January 2027. Some councils, such as Warwickshire, have a training day on 4 January, so pupils go back on Tuesday 5 January. Academies and independent schools can set different dates, so check with your child's school.

When do Scottish schools go back after Christmas 2026?

Most Scottish schools return on Tuesday 5 or Wednesday 6 January 2027. Monday 4 January 2027 is a Scottish bank holiday, the substitute day for 2 January. Edinburgh schools go back on Wednesday 6 January, while published dates from schools in Glasgow and North Lanarkshire show a return on Tuesday 5 January.

Do schools finish early on the last day of term in December 2026?

Many do, but each school sets its own finish time. For example, St Vincent's Primary in Glasgow and St Andrew's Primary in Cumbernauld both close at 2.30pm on Friday 18 December 2026. Check your school's newsletter or website for the exact time.

How many working days do I need childcare for over Christmas 2026?

In England and Wales, where most schools return on Monday 4 January 2027, there are seven working days to cover once the bank holidays on 25 December, 28 December and 1 January are taken out. In Edinburgh, where schools return on Wednesday 6 January, it's eight. The exact number depends on your school's dates and your own working pattern.

Why are Christmas holiday dates different between schools in the same area?

Councils set term dates for community and voluntary controlled schools, but academies, free schools, voluntary aided and independent schools can choose their own. Schools can also place training days at the start or end of a holiday. Two schools on the same street can end up with different return dates.