Here’s when schools close for the Easter break

Pupils across South Africa are days away from a much-anticipated break, as the first school term of 2026 draws to a close this week. According to the department of basic education (DBE) calendar, public schools will officially close on Friday, 27 March 2026, giving pupils a short but significant pause before the academic year continues. The DBE has confirmed that the second term will begin on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, meaning pupils will have just over a week away from the classroom.

The break coincides with the Easter period, one of the most widely observed holidays in the country. This year, Good Friday falls on 3 April, followed by Easter Sunday on 5 April, and Family Day on Monday, 6 April 2026. While brief, the holiday gives pupils time to rest and recharge ahead of a demanding second term, which is to run until 26 June 2026 and is typically packed with assessments and exams.

The school calendar also provides for additional short breaks early in the second term. Pupils will return to school in April but will only attend classes for a few weeks before another long weekend. Schools will close on Friday, 24 April 2026, with pupils returning on Tuesday, 28 April 2026.

[paywall]

They will then attend school for just three days before another public holiday on Friday, 1 May, giving pupils yet another short break. While school holidays are often met with excitement, they can also bring challenges for parents as pupils look for ways to stay entertained. Experts say the break presents an opportunity for meaningful engagement beyond screens.

[/paywall]