Quick Answer: NSW school holidays for 2026-2027 include four terms per year with breaks in April (Easter), July (Winter), September-October (Spring), and December-January (Summer). Key dates: Term 1 2026 starts 28 January; Term 4 2027 ends 17 December. Plan ahead for family vacations and childcare arrangements.
Complete NSW School Holidays Guide 2026-2027
Planning your family’s year around the New South Wales school calendar is essential for working parents, holiday bookings, and ensuring your children don’t miss important school days. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about NSW school term dates and holiday periods for 2026 and 2027, including comparison with other states and practical planning tips.
2026 NSW School Term Dates
The 2026 academic year in New South Wales follows the standard four-term structure that has been in place since 2012. Understanding these dates helps families coordinate travel plans, extracurricular activities, and work commitments.
| Term | Start Date | End Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | Tuesday, 28 January 2026 | Thursday, 9 April 2026 | 10 weeks |
| Term 2 | Monday, 27 April 2026 | Friday, 3 July 2026 | 10 weeks |
| Term 3 | Monday, 20 July 2026 | Friday, 25 September 2026 | 10 weeks |
| Term 4 | Monday, 12 October 2026 | Friday, 18 December 2026 | 10 weeks |
2027 NSW School Term Dates
The 2027 school year begins slightly earlier than 2026, with Term 1 starting on 27 January. This pattern of starting the school year in late January is consistent across Australian states, though exact dates vary.
| Term | Start Date | End Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | Tuesday, 27 January 2027 | Thursday, 8 April 2027 | 10 weeks |
| Term 2 | Monday, 26 April 2027 | Friday, 2 July 2027 | 10 weeks |
| Term 3 | Monday, 19 July 2027 | Friday, 24 September 2027 | 10 weeks |
| Term 4 | Monday, 11 October 2027 | Friday, 17 December 2027 | 10 weeks |
NSW School Holiday Periods 2026-2027
Between each term, students enjoy school holidays ranging from two weeks to nearly six weeks. These breaks provide opportunities for family travel, rest, and extracurricular activities. Here’s the complete breakdown of holiday periods:
| Holiday Period | Dates | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer Holidays 2025/2026 | 23 December 2025 – 27 January 2026 | 5-6 weeks | Before 2026 school year |
| Easter Holidays 2026 | 10 April – 26 April 2026 | 2 weeks | Includes Easter weekend |
| Winter Holidays 2026 | 4 July – 19 July 2026 | 2 weeks | Mid-year break |
| Spring Holidays 2026 | 26 September – 11 October 2026 | 2 weeks | Includes Labour Day long weekend |
| Summer Holidays 2026/2027 | 19 December 2026 – 26 January 2027 | 5-6 weeks | Longest break of the year |
| Easter Holidays 2027 | 9 April – 25 April 2027 | 2 weeks | Includes Anzac Day |
| Winter Holidays 2027 | 3 July – 18 July 2027 | 2 weeks | Mid-year break |
| Spring Holidays 2027 | 25 September – 10 October 2027 | 2 weeks | Includes Labour Day |
| Summer Holidays 2027/2028 | 18 December 2027 – Late January 2028 | 5-6 weeks | End of 2027 school year |
NSW vs Other States: Key Differences
Understanding how NSW school dates compare to other Australian states is crucial for families with interstate relatives, those planning national holidays, or considering a move. Here are the main differences:
Queensland
- Earlier start: Queensland typically starts the school year 1-2 weeks earlier than NSW
- Labour Day: QLD observes Labour Day in May, while NSW celebrates in October
- Longer summer break: Queensland students usually enjoy 6-7 weeks compared to NSW’s 5-6 weeks
- Different term break timing: Easter and winter breaks may not align perfectly
Victoria
- Similar structure: Victoria also follows a four-term system with similar dates
- Labour Day: VIC celebrates Labour Day in March, different from NSW’s October date
- Term dates: Usually within 1-2 weeks of NSW dates
Western Australia
- Different term structure: WA sometimes has slightly different term break timing
- Later start: Often starts the school year later than eastern states
- Labour Day: WA celebrates in March
Planning Tips for NSW Families
Making the most of school holidays requires planning. Here are practical tips for NSW families:
Book Early for Peak Periods
Summer holidays (December-January) and Easter are the busiest travel periods. Book flights, accommodation, and holiday programs 3-6 months in advance to secure better rates and availability.
Consider Off-Peak Travel
Winter holidays (July) and Spring holidays (September-October) offer excellent travel opportunities with fewer crowds and lower prices. Consider destinations like the Gold Coast, Fiji, or New Zealand during these periods.
Childcare and Vacation Care
Working parents should investigate vacation care programs early. Many schools offer on-site programs, and local councils often run activities at community centers. The NSW Government’s Active and Creative Kids vouchers can help offset costs for eligible activities.
Plan Around Public Holidays
NSW public holidays that fall during school terms include:
- Australia Day – 26 January
- Anzac Day – 25 April
- Queen’s Birthday – June (second Monday)
- Labour Day – October (first Monday)
Independent and Private Schools
Note that independent and private schools in NSW may have slightly different term dates. Always check with your specific school for exact dates, as they may start or finish a few days earlier or later than government schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do NSW schools go back in 2026?
NSW government schools return for Term 1 2026 on Tuesday, 28 January 2026. This follows the Australia Day public holiday on Monday, 27 January.
How long are NSW school holidays?
NSW school holidays vary by season: Summer holidays are 5-6 weeks (the longest), while Easter, Winter, and Spring holidays are each 2 weeks long.
Are NSW and QLD school holidays the same?
No, NSW and Queensland school holidays are similar but not identical. Queensland typically starts the school year earlier and has a longer summer break. Term break timing can vary by 1-2 weeks between the states.
When is the October long weekend in NSW?
The October long weekend in NSW falls on the first Monday in October, which is Labour Day. In 2026, this is Monday, 5 October. In 2027, it’s Monday, 4 October.
Do private schools follow NSW government school dates?
Independent and Catholic schools in NSW generally follow similar term dates but may have slight variations. Always confirm dates directly with your child’s school, as they may start or finish terms a few days differently.
What is the best time to plan a family holiday from NSW?
For better prices and fewer crowds, consider traveling during the Winter (July) or Spring (September-October) holidays. Summer and Easter are peak periods with higher costs and more tourists.
Can I take my child out of school during term time?
While possible, taking children out during term time is generally discouraged and may require formal application to the school principal. Extended absences can impact learning and may be recorded as unexplained absences if not approved.
Conclusion
Planning around the NSW school calendar for 2026-2027 helps families make the most of their time together while ensuring children maintain consistent attendance. Bookmark this page and check back for any updates to term dates. For the most current information, always verify dates with the NSW Department of Education or your child’s specific school.
