There are 6 main Ards and North Down School Holidays throughout the academic year, covering breaks in the Autumn, Spring, and Summer term. This page brings together the latest School term dates, Half term, Public holidays, and Bank holidays, helping families quickly identify important breaks, School closures, and Back to school dates.
The school year runs from September to July, with breaks for Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and bank holidays. Here are the official non-operational dates for schools in the Ards and North Down area.
Ards and North Down School Holidays 2026/2027
Here are the official Ards and North Down school holidays for the 2026/2027 academic year.
| Event | Dates (inclusive) |
|---|---|
| Schools resume after summer holiday | 1 September 2026 |
| Halloween | 29 & 30 October 2026 |
| Christmas and New Year | 21 December 2026 to 1 January 2027 |
| Mid-term | 11 & 12 February 2027 |
| St Patrick’s Day | 17 March 2027 |
| Easter | 25 March to 2 April 2027 |
| May Day | 3 May 2027 |
| Spring Bank Holiday | 31 May 2027 |
| Summer holiday begins | 1 July 2027 |
Ards and North Down School Holidays 2027/2028
Here are the official Ards and North Down school holidays for the 2027/2028 academic year.
| Event | Dates (inclusive) |
|---|---|
| Schools resume after summer holiday | 1 September 2027 |
| Halloween | 28 & 29 October 2027 |
| Christmas and New Year | 20 December 2027 to 3 January 2028 |
| Mid-term | 10 & 11 February 2028 |
| St Patrick’s Day | 17 March 2028 |
| Easter | 30 March to 7 April 2028 |
| May Day | 1 May 2028 |
| Spring Bank Holiday | 29 May 2028 |
| Summer holiday begins | 1 July 2028 |
Need Accurate UK Public Holiday Information?
If you need more details about public holidays in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, our team is ready to assist. Contact us for accurate guidance and timely updates.
Get in TouchCheck more: Newry School Holidays
Ards and North Down School Holidays 2028/2029
While official dates for 2027/2028 are yet to be confirmed by the Department of Education, the academic year typically follows a similar pattern to the previous year. Here are the predicted dates:
| Event | Dates (inclusive) |
|---|---|
| Schools resume after summer holiday | 1 September 2028 |
| Halloween | 26 & 27 October 2028 |
| Christmas and New Year | 18 December 2028 to 1 January 2029 |
| Mid-term | 8 & 9 February 2029 |
| St Patrick’s Day | 17 March 2029 |
| Easter | 22 March to 30 March 2029 |
| May Day | 7 May 2029 |
| Spring Bank Holiday | 28 May 2029 |
| Summer holiday begins | 1 July 2029 |
Understanding the Northern Ireland School Calendar
The Northern Ireland school year follows a distinct structure compared to the rest of the UK, with a longer summer holiday and different patterns for mid-term breaks. The Education Authority for Northern Ireland sets the framework for school term dates across the region.
School Terms Explained
The academic year is typically divided into three main terms:
- Autumn Term: September to December, with a half-term break at Halloween
- Spring Term: January to March/April, with a mid-term break in February
- Summer Term: April to June/July, with breaks for May Day and Spring Bank Holiday
Staff Training and Discretionary Days
Schools have the discretion to take several staff training and school development days. Pupils do not attend on these days, and such days are likely to differ from school to school. It is always worth confirming dates directly with your child’s school.
Explore Official UK Public Holiday Dates
Access verified public holiday dates, yearly calendars, and regional breakdowns all in one place. Our regularly updated guide ensures you never miss an important UK holiday.
View UK Public HolidaysAlso Check: Northern Ireland School Holidays
FAQs
When do schools in Northern Ireland go back after summer?
Schools generally resume on 1 September, or the first working day of September.
Is St Patrick’s Day a school holiday in Northern Ireland?
Yes, St Patrick’s Day is a designated non-operational day for schools in Northern Ireland.
Do schools close for May Day in Northern Ireland?
Yes, May Day (the first Monday in May) is a bank holiday when schools are closed.
When does the summer holiday start in Northern Ireland?
The summer holiday generally begins on 1 July.
How long is the Easter break in Northern Ireland?
The Easter break typically lasts for one week, unlike the two-week break in England and Wales.
Useful Resources
For the most accurate dates, always check the official council website.