School Holiday Dates for 2025/2026 Announced: Key Dates Revealed!

URGENT UPDATE: The 2025/2026 school holiday dates for primary and secondary schools across Ireland have just been confirmed, providing crucial information for families planning the academic year ahead.

Schools have recently reopened, and students are diving into lessons, exams, and various school events. However, parents and students need to mark their calendars for the upcoming breaks.

The first major break is the October mid-term, which will take place from Monday, October 27 to Friday, October 31. Schools will reopen on Monday, November 3, just in time for the busy winter season.

As schools gear up for the Christmas holidays, students can expect to be off from Friday, December 19 until Monday, January 5. Following this break, schools will resume lessons until the St Brigid’s Day bank holiday on Monday, February 2, 2026.

In February, primary schools will close for a mid-term break on Thursday, February 19 and Friday, February 20. Secondary schools will observe their mid-term break from Monday, February 16 through Friday, February 20.

The Easter holidays will follow closely, as schools close on Friday, March 27 and reopen on Monday, April 13. Parents should note that some schools may opt to extend their term until Wednesday, April 1 to accommodate any missed days.

In addition to these breaks, schools will also observe significant bank holidays:
– Monday, October 27 for the October Bank Holiday
– Tuesday, March 17 for St Patrick’s Day (with optional closure on Monday, March 16 for an extended weekend)
– Monday, May 4 for the May Bank Holiday
– Monday, June 1 for the June Bank Holiday

It is critical for families to verify specific holiday dates with individual schools, as there may be variations based on unforeseen closures or additional days off.

Both the Leaving Cert and Junior Cert examination dates for 2026 have yet to be confirmed, but exams are anticipated to start on Wednesday, June 3.

For parents looking to stay informed, check in with your school’s calendar regularly. This will ensure you have the most accurate and personalized information regarding your child’s academic schedule.

Stay tuned for further updates as the school year progresses, and make sure to share this information with fellow parents and students to keep everyone in the loop!