Children across the UK are starting to wind down for Christmas as the festive period fast approaches.
The last few weeks before the big day are typically packed with class parties, early Christmas dinners, and other fun festive school activities.
Kids typically have several days before Christmas Day to rest and celebrate with friends and family.
Due to the timing of bank holidays this year, the end of term falls close to Christmas Eve.
But when exactly do schools break up for the Christmas holidays? Find out in our guide below.
Remember that school term dates vary by local council. Individual schools may also vary.
When do schools break up for Christmas holidays 2024 in the UK?
Most children in the UK will break up for the Christmas holidays on Friday, December 20. They will return to school on Monday, January 6.
That gives them just over two weeks off for the Christmas holidays.
Bank holidays during the 2024-2025 school year
Most 2024 bank holidays have already occurred. Only the Christmas bank holiday on December 25, which falls during the school holidays, remains.
Here's the full breakdown of UK bank holidays coming up in 2025 that occur during the school holidays:
- Good Friday (April 18) – This will fall during the Easter school holidays for most schools, which usually run from early to mid-April.
- Easter Monday (April 21) – This usually coincides with the Easter break for many schools in England and Wales.
- Early May Bank Holiday (May 5) – This could coincide with the May half-term holiday for some schools, particularly in England and Wales.
- Spring Bank Holiday (May 26) – This holiday typically occurs during the half-term break for many schools in England and Wales.
- Summer Bank Holiday (August 25) – This falls during the summer holiday period, especially in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Check with your child’s school for its exact term dates, because holidays and inset days can vary. The information should be available on the school’s website or your local council’s.
