South Ayrshire School Holidays and Term Dates

♻️ Last Updated: 30 March 2026

South Ayrshire School Holidays follow a structured academic calendar shaped by South Ayrshire Council. With 190 teaching days per year, understanding school term dates helps families plan ahead. From pupil return dates to half term breaks, this page covers everything you need for smooth school year planning.

South Ayrshire School Holidays and Term Dates
South Ayrshire School Holidays and Term Dates

South Ayrshire School Holidays 2025/2026

Below are the official South Ayrshire School Holidays and term dates for 2025/2026.

DateHoliday
First term 
18 August 2025Inservice day
19 August 2025Inservice day
20 August 2025Pupils return
19 September 2025 – 22 September 2025Schools closed
13 October 2025 – 17 October 2025Schools closed
20 October 2025Inservice day
21 October 2025Pupils return
22 December 2025 – 2 January 2026Schools closed
Second Term 
05 January 2026Pupils return
6 February 2026 – 9 February 2026Schools closed
10 February 2026Inservice day
11 February 2026Pupils return
Third Term 
3 April 2026 – 17 April 2026Schools closed
20 April 2026Pupils return
04 May 2026Schools closed
05 May 2026Pupils return
07 May 2026Inservice day
08 May 2026Pupils return
25 May 2026Schools closed
30 June 2026last day of term for pupils and staff
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South Ayrshire School Holidays 2026/2027

Below are the official South Ayrshire School Holidays and term dates for 2026 to 2027.

DateHoliday
First term 
18 August 2026Inservice day
19 August 2026Inservice day
20 August 2026Pupils return
18 September 2026 – 21 September 2026Schools closed
12 October 2026 – 16 October 2026Schools closed
19 October 2026Inservice day
20 October 2026Pupils return
23 December 2026 – 4 January 2027Schools closed
Second Term 
05 January 2027Pupils return
12 February 2027 – 15 February 2027Schools closed
16 February 2027Inservice day
17 February 2027Pupils return
Third Term 
26 March 2027 – 9 April 2027Schools closed
12 April 2027Pupils return
03 May 2027Schools closed
04 May 2027Pupils return
06 May 2027Inservice day
07 May 2027Pupils return
28 May 2027 – 31 May 2027Schools closed
30 June 2027last day of term for pupils and staff

These dates apply to all South Ayrshire Council schools, including early years centre term dates and special schools.

Check More: Scotland School Holidays

View UK Public Holidays

INSET Days & Staff Training in South Ayrshire

Inservice days (staff training days) are essential for professional development aligned with the Curriculum for Excellence and guidance from Education Scotland. These days mean schools are closed to pupils, so it’s important to note them for childcare planning.

Inservice Days 2026/27:

  • 18 August 2026
  • 19 August 2026
  • 19 October 2026
  • 16 February 2027
  • 6 May 2027

Parents should mark these school closed dates in their calendar to manage holiday entitlement and school administration tasks accordingly.

Key Dates for Early Years Centres and Nurseries

Key ConsiderationDetail
ClosuresEarly years centres close on the same inservice days and public holidays as schools.
RegistrationNursery term dates align with school session dates. Contact your preferred centre for enrolment.
Parental GuidanceSpeak with your nursery manager if you require additional care during school closures.

Also Check: Fife School Holidays

FAQs

Do early years centres close on inservice days?

Yes, most early years centres and nurseries close on inservice days as staff participate in training.

How many school holidays are there in South Ayrshire?
Are secondary school holidays different from primary in South Ayrshire?
Where can I find the official South Ayrshire school calendar?
What are the October break dates for South Ayrshire schools?

Useful Resources

For the Official term dates and school information, always refer to the local authority.

Check the official South Ayrshire Council website🡵