Here’s when the June school holidays start in 2025.
South African learners are currently enjoying an unexpected treat, a full week off school that began on 28 April. Thanks to a combination of public and special school holidays, families have gained valuable downtime just before the busy mid-year term ends.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) confirmed that schools would remain closed on 29 April, 30 April, and 2 May, in addition to observing Freedom Day (28 April) and Workers’ Day (1 May). This alignment created a full school-free week.
“These holidays are congested in a particular week, with one coming after the other, making it impossible for schools to remain open for an extended period,” said DBE spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga in an interview with CapeTalk.
June school holidays 2025: Mark your calendar
According to the official 2025 school calendar, the June holidays will kick off on 28 June, following the end of the second academic term on 27 June. Learners will enjoy a well-deserved break before returning for Term 3.
Here’s how the 2025 school year breaks down:
First term: 15 January – 28 March
Second term: 8 April – 27 June
Third term: 22 July – 3 October
Fourth term: 13 October – 10 December
Why April became the perfect time for a school break
The DBE planned this special break after acknowledging the challenges of the April holiday congestion. Elijah Mhlanga explained how overlapping public holidays and religious observances made it difficult to maintain consistent school schedules.
The department worked in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Department of Transport, NGOs, religious leaders, and private organizations, to finalize the academic calendar. This cooperative effort ensures minimal disruption while respecting cultural and religious events across the country.
Families and teachers embrace the extra break
With schools temporarily closed, many families and educators are taking this opportunity to rest, travel. And plan ahead for the upcoming academic demands of 2025.
This unexpected April break, coupled with the clear structure of the 2025 school calendar, offers learners and teachers a much-needed pause before Term 2 intensifies.
Stay tuned with The South African as we explain when the June school holidays start in 2025.
What will you be doing in the June school holidays?
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