Getting ready for a new school year is always easier when you know the term dates in advance. Whether you’re a parent planning family time, a teacher organizing lessons, or a student eager for holidays, the Aberdeenshire school holidays 2025–26 calendar has everything you need to stay one step ahead.
Below is the full breakdown of school terms, in-service days, and holidays for the 2025–2026 academic year — plus some creative ways to make the most of each break.
Term 1: New Beginnings and Autumn Energy
18 August 2025 – 10 October 2025
- 18–19 August 2025: In-Service Days (teachers only)
- 20 August 2025: Term 1 starts (pupils return)
- 10 October 2025: Term 1 ends
- 13–24 October 2025: October Holiday
Overview:
Term 1 marks the exciting start of the academic year. Pupils return with new goals, friendships, and routines. Teachers spend the first two days preparing classrooms and planning lessons before students return on 20 August.
Holiday Inspiration:
When the October holidays arrive, families can enjoy the stunning colours of autumn in Aberdeenshire. Consider:
- Taking a scenic walk in Cairngorms National Park
- Visiting Crathes Castle or Drum Castle for a historical adventure
- Enjoying family picnics in Haddo Country Park
- Planning a short staycation in Stonehaven or Ballater
The October break is ideal for recharging before the busy winter term begins.
Term 2: Winter Learning and Festive Cheer
27 October 2025 – 19 December 2025
- 27 October 2025: Term 2 starts
- 14 November 2025: In-Service Day
- 19 December 2025: Term 2 ends
- 22 December 2025 – 2 January 2026: Christmas Holiday
Overview:
Term 2 is full of learning milestones, creative projects, and festive excitement. Pupils dive deeper into their studies, while the in-service day in mid-November gives staff time for development and planning.
Holiday Inspiration:
The Christmas holidays bring warmth and sparkle to the long winter nights. Families can:
- Visit Aberdeen’s Christmas Village for lights and markets
- Enjoy ice skating or Christmas crafts at home
- Take part in festive charity events or concerts
- Spend quality time with loved ones over hot cocoa and movies
This break offers a perfect balance of celebration and rest before the new year begins.
Term 3: New Year, Fresh Focus
5 January 2026 – 27 March 2026
- 5 January 2026: Term 3 starts
- 9 February 2026: Midterm Holiday
- 10–11 February 2026: In-Service Days
- 27 March 2026: Term 3 ends
- 30 March – 10 April 2026: Spring Holiday
Overview:
After the festive period, students return recharged and ready to learn. February brings a short midterm break followed by staff training days, giving everyone a small pause before exams and assessments begin.
Holiday Inspiration:
The Spring holidays are a wonderful time for new beginnings. You can:
- Explore the Aberdeenshire coast, spotting dolphins or seals
- Visit Macduff Marine Aquarium for a fun learning day
- Enjoy Easter crafts and egg hunts with the kids
- Plan a countryside road trip through Royal Deeside
Families who prefer staying local can use the break to get ahead on spring cleaning, outdoor gardening, or preparing for the summer term.
Term 4: Sunshine, Celebration, and Summer Freedom
13 April 2026 – 2 July 2026
- 3 April 2026: Good Friday Holiday
- 13 April 2026: Term 4 starts
- 4 May 2026: May Day Holiday
- 2 July 2026: Term 4 ends
- 3 July – 14 August 2026: Summer Holiday
Overview:
The final term of the school year brings excitement and reflection. Pupils wrap up projects, enjoy school events, and prepare for transitions to the next stage. The Good Friday and May Day holidays provide short breaks during the spring sunshine.
Holiday Inspiration:
When summer holidays arrive, it’s time for full relaxation! Families can plan outdoor adventures or educational trips such as:
- Beach days at Fraserburgh, Banff, or St. Cyrus
- Camping in Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve
- Exploring local festivals and Highland Games
- Trying water sports at Loch Muick
- Organizing DIY science experiments or creative workshops at home
Summer holidays are also a great opportunity for teens to take up part-time jobs, volunteering, or summer courses to develop new skills.
Quick Overview of Key Dates
| Term | Dates | Key Holidays / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | 20 Aug – 10 Oct 2025 | In-service: 18–19 Aug; October holiday: 13–24 Oct |
| Term 2 | 27 Oct – 19 Dec 2025 | In-service: 14 Nov; Christmas holiday: 22 Dec – 2 Jan |
| Term 3 | 5 Jan – 27 Mar 2026 | Midterm: 9 Feb; In-service: 10–11 Feb; Spring break: 30 Mar – 10 Apr |
| Term 4 | 13 Apr – 2 Jul 2026 | Good Friday: 3 Apr; May Day: 4 May; Summer holiday: 3 Jul – 14 Aug |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When do Aberdeenshire schools start in 2025?
Teachers return on 18 August 2025, while pupils begin on 20 August 2025.
2. When are the October holidays in 2025?
The October holiday runs from 13 October to 24 October 2025 — a full two weeks off for families.
3. How long is the Christmas break?
The Christmas holidays last from 22 December 2025 to 2 January 2026, with schools reopening on Monday 5 January 2026.
4. When is the midterm break in February 2026?
Pupils get a day off on Monday 9 February 2026, followed by in-service days on 10 and 11 February 2026.
5. When do schools close for the summer holidays in 2026?
The summer holidays start on Friday 3 July 2026 and run until Friday 14 August 2026.
6. How can families make the most of the breaks?
Aberdeenshire offers beautiful outdoor options — from castles and beaches to forest trails. Each break can be used to relax, explore, or learn something new as a family. Even short trips or home projects can make holidays memorable and meaningful.
Final Thoughts
The Aberdeenshire school holidays 2025–2026 calendar gives families the perfect balance between learning and leisure. With four clear terms and generous breaks, there’s plenty of time to plan trips, enjoy Scotland’s natural beauty, or simply unwind together at home.