Here is the school calendar for 2025 – including a ‘special’ holiday week

The Department of Basic Education has published the 2025 school calendar, which kicks off on 15 January 2025 for all learners.

Teachers and administrators will begin the year a bit earlier, starting on 13 January in preparation for learners to return. The dates for the school terms are as follows.

• Term 1: 15 January to 28 March
• Term 2: 8 April to 27 June
• Term 3: 22 July to 3 October
• Term 4: 13 October to 10 December

The 2025 school year comprises 200 school days across the four terms, with 27 days set aside for school holidays and six public holidays.

Notably, the department has declared three additional ‘special’ school holidays, granting an extra week off. This is the week of 28 April (public holiday) to 2 May.

National Department of Basic Education noted that changes in public holidays and other calendar determinants mean that the department must adjust to ensure no delays in the term.