Planning ahead is essential for families with school-aged children. Whether it’s booking family holidays, arranging childcare, or helping children prepare for exams, knowing the school term dates can make a big difference. West Sussex County Council has now published the official school term and holiday schedule for 2025–26, giving parents and carers a clear view of the year ahead.
This guide sets out the full list of term dates, half-term breaks, and public holidays for West Sussex schools, along with some useful advice on how to make the most of the school year.
Autumn Term 2025
The academic year begins in early September, welcoming students back after the long summer break.
- First day of term: Wednesday 3 September 2025
- Half-term break: Monday 27 October – Friday 31 October 2025
- Last day of term: Friday 19 December 2025
- Christmas holiday: Monday 22 December 2025 – Friday 2 January 2026
Planning tip for parents:
Autumn term often sets the tone for the year. For younger children, it’s a time of new beginnings, while older students settle into exam preparation. Use the October half-term to balance rest and light study. Booking family activities in advance can help avoid last-minute stress during the festive season.
Spring Term 2026
After the Christmas holiday, students return to school in January for the shortest term of the year.
- First day of term: Monday 5 January 2026
- Half-term break: Monday 16 February – Friday 20 February 2026
- Last day of term: Friday 27 March 2026
- Easter holiday: Monday 30 March – Friday 10 April 2026
Parent advice:
Spring term is crucial for students in Years 11 and 13 as they prepare for GCSEs and A-Levels. Parents can support them by creating revision timetables that fit around schoolwork. February half-term is a good opportunity for focused study sessions without overwhelming children.
Summer Term 2026
The final term runs from April to late July and is generally the longest and most intensive part of the academic year.
- First day of term: Monday 13 April 2026
- Half-term break: Monday 25 May – Friday 29 May 2026
- Last day of term: Wednesday 22 July 2026
Family planning tip:
With exams, sports days, and end-of-year events, summer term can feel hectic. Parents should keep an eye on school newsletters for important dates like assessments, transition days, or trips. The May half-term holiday is also a popular time for family getaways before peak travel season.
Bank and Public Holidays During the School Year
Alongside term breaks, several national holidays fall within the school year. These are important for planning family gatherings or short trips.
- Christmas Day: Thursday 25 December 2025
- Boxing Day: Friday 26 December 2025
- New Year’s Day: Thursday 1 January 2026
- Good Friday: Friday 3 April 2026
- Easter Monday: Monday 6 April 2026
- Early May Bank Holiday: Monday 4 May 2026
- Spring Bank Holiday: Monday 25 May 2026
- Summer Bank Holiday: Monday 31 August 2026
How Many School Days Are There in West Sussex 2025–26?
According to the official calendar, West Sussex schools will have 195 teaching days during the academic year. Schools also set their own INSET (staff training) days, which are non-pupil days. Parents should check with individual schools as these dates can vary.
Why These Dates Matter
For families, knowing the school term dates is more than just a calendar exercise:
- Childcare arrangements: Parents can book childcare or holiday clubs in advance, especially during half-term and summer holidays.
- Holiday planning: Booking family trips outside peak travel times can save money and reduce stress.
- Study schedules: Parents of exam-year students can structure revision around school holidays.
- Work-life balance: Planning annual leave to align with school breaks makes it easier to spend quality family time together.
Looking Ahead to 2026–27
The first day of the next academic year in September 2026 will be confirmed once the new calendar is finalised. Parents should look out for announcements from West Sussex County Council in mid-2026.
Final Thoughts
The West Sussex school term dates for 2025–26 provide a clear framework for the year ahead. With three main terms, regular half-term breaks, and key national holidays, families have plenty of opportunities to balance study, work, and leisure. By planning early, parents can ensure children make the most of their time both inside and outside the classroom.