The school year in South Africa runs from January to December, with four holidays. The break between April and May is for around two weeks, the break between June and July is for around three weeks, the break between September and October is for around 1 week, and there’s a long one starting after November.
Schools in South Africa are set up to have 200 days of school per year. Most industry holidays happen on the same day so it’s always good to know when a school might close.
International schools in South Africa may have their own holidays that differ from the ones of state schools. Usually, though, you will find out what the annual dates are ahead of time with your child’s school.
The importance of school holidays
Families typically use school holidays in South Africa as a time to take advantage of the lower prices in the destination country. They may also make plans that include visits to family members who live far away, vacation destinations or fun activities for kids. Some religious festivals are also observed during these periods of time and they generally celebrate these with big celebrations.
The school calendar and public holidays
Although South Africa has 12 annual public holidays, some of which fall during school term time, these days are extra school holidays in the country.
Schools are closed on Mondays when a public holiday falls on a Sunday. In other instances, schools will be closed if the public holiday falls on a Tuesday.
