Term dates: When schools break up for Christmas and return in January 2024

The final half term of the calendar year has come and gone, with Christmas now on the near horizon. These are the dates to remember as we enter the final days of education for 2023.

When do schools in Newcastle break up for Christmas?

According to Newcastle City Council, the current term comes to an end for the majority of schools on Friday, December 22, when students will say goodbye to their classmates ahead of two weeks away from the classroom.

Schools will then be off throughout the Christmas and New Year period before returning on Monday, January 8. This gives staff and students a full 16 days away from school sites to celebrate with friends and family.

Schools must be open for 190 days throughout the academic year and dates may vary from school to school. The Council recommends parents should contact their child’s school if they are not sure of specific dates.

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When are the bank holidays over Christmas and New Year?

With Christmas Day and Boxing Day falling on a Monday and Tuesday this year respectively. This results in a four day weekend for most people as Christmas Day and Boxing Day are listed as bank holidays.

The only other bank holiday over the festive period comes on New Year’s Day.

When is the first school holiday of 2024?

After returning on Monday, January 8, students and staff at schools only need to wait until February to get another week away thanks to the first half-term of 2023. This will run between Monday, February 19, and Friday, February 23.

Schools are then expected to close on Thursday, March 28 until Monday, April 15 for the Easter break while the following May half term will run from Monday, May 27 until Friday, May 31.

The summer holidays for schools will begin on Friday, July 19.