Planning for the Wales School Holidays requires looking at the full academic year. In Wales, the school year is divided into three main terms: autumn term, spring term, and summer term, broken up by half-term breaks. While term dates are set nationally, slight variations can occur between local authorities.
If you are planning family travel, arranging childcare, or booking annual leave, this overview of Wales School Holidays provides clear and practical information to help you stay organised throughout the year.
Wales School Holidays: Complete Term Dates
We have compiled the Wales term dates into easy-to-read tables. These dates are based on the harmonized directive from the Welsh Ministers, ensuring consistency across most local authorities for school term dates Wales.
Wales School Holidays for 2026
These dates are based on the standard pattern for Wales school holidays and term dates 2026.
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| February Half Term Holiday | Monday 16 February 2026 | Friday 20 February 2026 |
| Easter School Holidays | Monday 30 March 2026 | Friday 10 April 2026 |
| May Half Term Holidays | Monday 25 May 2026 | Friday 29 May 2026 |
| Summer School Holidays | Tuesday 21 July 2026 | Monday 31 August 2026 |
| October Half Term Holidays | Monday 26 October 2026 | Friday 30 October 2026 |
| Christmas Holidays 2026 | Friday 18 December 2026 | Monday 4 January 2027 |
Wales School Holidays for 2027
For those looking at the 2026–2027 school year, here are the essential Wales school holidays 2027. Note the shift in the Wales spring break and Easter holidays compared to the previous year .
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| February Half Term Holiday | Monday 8 February 2027 | Friday 12 February 2027 |
| Easter School Holidays | Monday 22 March 2027 | Tuesday 5 April 2027 |
| May Half Term Holidays | Monday 31 May 2027 | Friday 4 June 2027 |
| Summer School Holidays | Tuesday 20 July 2027 | Tuesday 31 August 2027 |
| October Half Term Holidays | Tuesday 26 October 2027 | Friday 30 October 2027 |
| Christmas Holidays 2027 | Monday 21 December 2027 | Tuesday 4 January 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 TouchWales School Holidays for 2028
Looking further ahead, the Wales school holidays 2028 are already set.
| Holiday | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| February Half Term Holiday | Monday 21 February 2028 | Friday 25 February 2028 |
| Easter School Holidays | Monday 10 April 2028 | Friday 21 April 2028 |
| May Half Term Holidays | Monday 29 May 2028 | Friday 2 June 2028 |
| Summer School Holidays | Thursday 20 July 2028 | Thursday 31 August 2028 |
| October Half Term Holidays | Wednesday 25 October 2028 | Friday 29 October 2028 |
| Christmas Holidays 2028 | Saturday 23 December 2028 | Thursday 5 January 2029 |
Key Public Holidays in Wales
While school term dates Wales cover the main breaks, it is also helpful to know the specific bank holidays that fall within term time. These often affect school closures, especially around May and Easter. In 2026, Good Friday falls on 3 April, and the May Day bank holiday is on 4 May. For 2027, look out for the Early May bank holiday on 3 May and the Spring bank holiday on 31 May.
Understanding Inset Days in Wales
One of the most common questions parents ask is about inset days. Inset days (in-service education and training days) are when school premises are open for staff training, but pupils do not attend. In Wales, there are usually 5 inset days per academic year, though a sixth has been confirmed.
It is important to note that while the Welsh Government sets the term dates, individual schools set their own inset days. This is why you might see one school closed while another nearby is open. Always check your specific school’s website for their exact training days.
Planning Family Holidays Around Wales Term Dates
Booking a family break? It is vital to stick to the Wales school calendar. Taking children out of school during term time can only be approved by the Headteacher in exceptional circumstances. Cheap holidays or better weather are not considered valid reasons for absence.
To avoid any issues, align your travel plans with the Wales summer break, October half term holidays, or the Christmas holidays listed above. Many parents use these guides to book early and secure the best deals for the spring half term or Easter break.
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 HolidaysLocal Authority Variations
Thanks to the harmonization of term dates by the Welsh Ministers, most local authorities in Wales now follow the same pattern. This means that counties like Cardiff, Swansea, Gwynedd, and Carmarthenshire generally have the same holiday dates. However, there can sometimes be slight differences in start of term Wales dates for pupils vs. teachers, or adjustments for election days.
For example, some councils note that schools used as polling stations may close for elections and open for extra days at the end of the summer term. Always verify with your local council, but the tables above provide a 99% accurate guide for the entire country.
Explore Other Holidays:
- UK School Holidays
- England School Holidays
- Scotland School Holidays
- Wales School Holidays
- Northern Ireland School Holidays
- UK Public Holidays
- UK Public Holidays 2026
- Easter Holidays UK
Staying on top of the Wales School Holidays ensures you never miss a moment of family time and helps you plan well in advance.
FAQs
Can I take my child on holiday during term time in Wales?
No, not unless there are exceptional circumstances. Headteachers cannot approve holidays for reasons like cheaper prices.
Do all Welsh counties have the same school holidays?
Yes, most have harmonized dates now, but it is always wise to check your local council website for confirmation.
When is the October half term in 2027?
What is a “Training Day” in Wales?
It is a day when pupils do not attend school because teachers are undergoing professional development and training.
Are bank holidays the same as school holidays?
Sometimes. Schools are closed on bank holidays (like May Day), but these are separate from the main Easter break or half-term holidays.
When does the Spring term start in 2028?
The spring term for 2028 starts on Tuesday 4 January.
Where can I find my school’s specific inset dates?
You can find these dates on your child’s school website or by contacting the school office directly.
Useful Resources
For official announcements and changes to education policy.
Visit the official Wales GOV website 🡵
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