Minister Siviwe Gwarube confirmed the 2027 school year, emphasising the department's commitment to maximising teaching and learning time.
The 2027 academic year will commence on 13 January and conclude on 8 December, encompassing 201 school days across 42 weeks.
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.
Term Dates Breakdown
The 2027 school terms are as follows:
- Term 1: 13 January – 19 March
- Term 2: 6 April - 25 June
- Term 3: 20 July - 22 September
- Term 4: 5 October - 8 December
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
Calendar Development Process
The DBE follows a rigorous process to finalise the school calendar, involving provincial education departments, key stakeholders, and public consultation. The final calendar was approved by the Minister and published through the Government Gazette, the DBE website, and social media platforms.
