Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has published the 2027 school calendar. This confirms when the 2027 school year will commence, and conclude and when learners will be on holiday.
I, Siviwe Gwarube, Minister of Basic Education, acting in terms of section 3(4)(k) of the National Education Policy Act, 1996, (Act No. 27 of 1996), and after consultation with the Council of Education Ministers, hereby publish the 2027 Calendar for public schools in South Africa as detailed in the accompanying schedule.
2027 School Year
The 2027 school year commences on 13 January 2027 and concludes on 8 December 2027. There will be 201 school days over 42 weeks for learning and examinations.
2027 School Terms
- Term 1: (11) 13 January – 19 March
- Term 2: 6 April - 25 June
- Term 3: 20 July - 22 September
- Term 4: 5 October - 8 (12) December
Brackets indicate the dates on which teachers begin and conclude the school year.
Public Holidays
- 1 January - New Year’s Day
- 21 March - Human Rights Day
- 22 March - Public Holiday
- 26 March - Good Friday
- 29 March - Family Day
- 26 April - Special School Holiday
- 27 April - Freedom Day
- 1 May - Workers’ Day
- 16 June - Youth Day
- 9 August - National Women’s Day
- 24 September - Heritage Day
- 16 December - Day of Reconciliation
- 25 December - Christmas Day
- 26 December - Day of Goodwill
- 27 December - Public Holiday
While the 2027 school year is still months away, preparation is already taking place to maximise the time for teaching and learning.
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) follows a structured process to determine the school calendar each year. This begins with drafting a preliminary version, which is then shared with provincial education departments and other key stakeholders for their initial input.
Once feedback is received, the DBE forms a subcommittee to review the suggestions and make necessary adjustments to the draft calendar. The revised version is then submitted to the Minister of Basic Education, who opens it for public consultation.
During the public comment period, members of the public can share their views on the proposed calendar. After this phase, the subcommittee reconvenes to consider public input and make further refinements if needed. The updated calendar is then presented to a committee for evaluation, which provides recommendations to the council.
After careful consideration, the council decides on the final calendar.
Last month, the Minister of Basic Education approved the 2027 school calendar, which has since been published through various channels, including the Government Gazette, the DBE website, and social media platforms.
