Academic year 2026/27
Highland School Holidays
The full 2026/27 school calendar for Highland schools, including in-service days. Term starts 18 August 2026 and ends 2 July 2027. Always confirm with your school before booking anything — councils occasionally update dates.
| Period | Starts | Ends | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| October Holiday | 12 October 2026 | 23 October 2026 | Holiday |
| Christmas Holiday | 21 December 2026 | 5 January 2027 | Holiday |
| February Break | 8 February 2027 | 9 February 2027 | Holiday |
| Easter Holiday | 5 April 2027 | 16 April 2027 | Holiday |
| May Day | 3 May 2027 | 3 May 2027 | Holiday |
| Summer Holiday | 5 July 2027 | 16 August 2027 | Holiday |
Frequently asked questions
When do schools go back in Highland for 2026/27?
Schools in Highland return for the 2026/27 academic year on 18 August 2026. This is the official term-start date used by council-managed primary and secondary schools across Highland.
When is the October break in Highland 2026/27?
The October break in Highland runs from 12 October 2026 to 23 October 2026 inclusive. Schools return the following school day.
When are the Christmas school holidays in Highland?
Highland schools close for the Christmas holiday from 21 December 2026 and return on the school day after 5 January 2027.
When is the Easter holiday in Highland 2026/27?
The Easter holiday in Highland runs from 5 April 2027 to 16 April 2027 inclusive.
When does the summer holiday start in Highland?
Highland schools break up for the summer on 5 July 2027 and return for the new academic year on 16 August 2027 or the school day after, depending on in-service day scheduling.