In South Africa, the school year is divided into four terms. The 2026 school calendar for South Africa begins on January 13th and ends on December 9th. The first term runs from January 13th to March 20th, followed by the second term from April 7th to June 26th. The third term starts on July 21st and finishes on September 25th, with the final term running from October 13th to December 9th.
During the 2026 school year in South Africa, there are several public holidays and school holidays to take note of. Some of the public holidays that fall within the school terms include Human Rights Day on March 21st, Freedom Day on April 27th, Youth Day on June 16th, and Heritage Day on September 24th. School holidays such as the Easter break and winter break also provide students and teachers with some time off to rest and recharge.
2026 School Calendar South Africa
Exam Dates and Important Events
Exams are an important part of the school calendar in South Africa, with each term ending in a set of exams for students to demonstrate their learning. The exam dates for the 2026 school year will vary depending on the grade level and subject, so it is essential for students to keep track of their exam schedules. In addition to exams, there are also important events such as sports days, cultural festivals, and parent-teacher meetings that take place throughout the year to enrich the school experience.