Planning your family time and UK holidays around the Scotland school holidays just got easier. This important planner provides the key school holiday dates for Scotland. It’s crucial to remember that school term dates Scotland can have council variations, so always check with your school for the final word on school closure dates.
Scotland School Holidays and Term Dates
Stay ahead of the calendar with our complete overview of Scottish school holidays. Find all the key holiday dates for your family breaks.
2025-2026 Term Dates
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Half Term | 10/02/2025 | 14/02/2025 |
| Easter Break | 07/04/2025 | 18/04/2025 |
| Summer Holidays | 30/06/2025 | 14/08/2025 |
| October Half Term | 13/10/2025 | 17/10/2025 |
| Christmas Holidays | 22/12/2025 | 05/01/2026 |
2026-2027 Term Dates
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| First Day of School | 12/08/2026 | – |
| October Mid-Term | 12/10/2026 | 16/10/2026 |
| Christmas Holidays | 21/12/2026 | 05/01/2027 |
| February Mid-Term | 15/02/2027 | 19/02/2027 |
| Easter Holidays | 05/04/2027 | 16/04/2027 |
| Summer Holidays Start | 30/06/2027 | – |
Need Help with UK Bank Holidays?
Have questions about upcoming UK bank holidays or planning time off? Get expert guidance from Coming Holidays and plan your year with clarity and confidence.
School Term Dates and Holidays
Understanding the structure of the Scottish academic year helps with planning. Here’s a breakdown of the key periods, including in-service days when staff resume without pupils.
- Autumn Term: Typically begins in mid-August, making Scotland’s first day of school much earlier than other parts of the United Kingdom.
- Mid-Term Holidays: These essential breaks include the October holiday Scotland and the February half term Scotland, perfect for a short family break.
- Christmas Holidays: The Christmas break Scotland usually runs from late December to early January.
- Winter/Spring Term: This term covers the period from January until the Easter holiday Scotland.
- Easter Holidays: The Spring break Scotland dates vary each year based on the ecclesiastical calendar.
- Summer Term: This term includes the May Day holiday Scotland and leads to the long Summer break Scotland.
- Casual Holidays: These are unique local festivals and holidays, such as the Common Riding holiday in Borders towns.
- Saint Andrew’s Day: The St Andrew’s Day school holiday on November 30th is a fantastic national day, though some schools may use it as an in-service day.
Local Variations and Casual Holidays
One of the most important things to know about School Holidays in Scotland is that there are council variations. Local council dates can differ, especially for school holidays Scottish Borders and other regions. Many areas also have casual holidays tied to local festivals, like the Common Riding in towns like Hawick and Selkirk. This is why you must always check with your school for the exact school closure dates.
Childcare during school holidays in Scotland
The long summer break Scotland and other holiday closures can be a challenge for parents. Planning is key. Explore local holiday clubs, community centers, and childcare services that offer outdoor activities and programs to keep children engaged during the mid-term break Scotland. Many providers release their schedules aligned with the school dates, so book early!
Plan Your Year with Confidence
Explore the complete list of countries’ bank holidays and stay ahead with accurate dates, smart planning, and stress-free travel and work schedules.
Explore More School Holidays:
- UK School Holidays
- England School Holidays
- Scotland School Holidays
- Wales School Holidays
- Northern Ireland School Holidays
- Renfrewshire School Holidays
- Edinburgh School Holidays
- Fife School Holidays
- Glasgow School Holidays
- Hampshire School Holidays
- South Lanarkshire School Holidays
- North Lanarkshire School Holidays
Remember to use our official sources for the most accurate, verified information. Explore the official Scottish Borders council website for local details or the UK government site for broader guidance. Plan and make unforgettable memories during your Scottish school holidays!
FAQs
When is the first day of school in Scotland?
The first day of school in Scotland is typically in mid-August, which is earlier than in England and Wales. For example, in 2026, pupils resume on Wednesday, 19th August.
When do Scottish schools break up for the summer?
The last day of the summer term in Scotland is usually in late June. For instance, in 2027, the summer holidays start on Thursday, 1st July.
What is a midterm holiday in Scotland?
A midterm holiday in Scotland is a short break during a school term, such as the October holiday in Scotland or the February half-term in Scotland, allowing families a rest during the long term.
Are schools closed on St. Andrew’s Day?
Yes, St Andrew’s Day (30th November) is a national holiday, and most schools are closed. However, some councils may use this day for an in-service day.
What are casual holidays?
Casual holidays are extra days off granted by local councils, often aligned to specific local festivals like the Common Riding holiday in the Scottish Borders.
