Schools reopen on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, marking the official start of the second academic term. The reopening follows a short Easter break, with education authorities warning that the coming term will be academically demanding. The return affects millions of learners, educators, and parents, with schools expected to move quickly into a full curriculum schedule.
According to the Department of Basic Education, the second term is one of the most intensive periods in the school calendar, making early preparation critical for both learners and schools.
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Schools Reopen After Easter Break
Public schools closed on 27 March 2026 at the end of the first term, giving pupils just over a week to rest. The break coincided with key Easter holidays, including Good Friday on 3 April, Easter Sunday on 5 April, and Family Day on 6 April.
While the break was relatively short, it provided a pause between academic cycles. The Gauteng Department of Education confirmed that all public schools resumed on 8 April.
The department said the reopening applies to:
- Learners across all grades in public schools
- Educators and school management teams
- Support staff and governing bodies
In a public message, the department wished schools a productive start to the term and reminded stakeholders of the importance of attendance from the first day.
A Demanding Academic Term Begins
The second term is widely regarded as one of the busiest periods in the school year. It is typically marked by:
- Increased academic assessments
- Mid year examinations preparation
- Curriculum catch up and progression
- Extracurricular commitments
Schools are expected to move quickly into teaching schedules, with limited time for adjustment following the break.
Education officials have previously emphasised that consistent attendance during this term plays a significant role in overall academic performance.
Short Breaks Offer Brief Relief
Despite the demanding schedule, the school calendar includes several short breaks that may ease pressure for learners and teachers.
Key upcoming breaks include:
- Schools close: Friday, 24 April 2026
- Schools reopen: Tuesday, 28 April 2026
- Public holiday: Workers’ Day on Friday, 1 May 2026
This sequence creates a series of shortened school weeks early in the term.
The second term will officially conclude on 26 June 2026.
Full 2026 School Calendar Overview
The Department of Basic Education calendar outlines key dates for the year:
First Term
- Started: 14 January 2026
- Ended: 27 March 2026
Second Term
- Starts: 8 April 2026
- Ends: 26 June 2026
- Public holidays:
- Freedom Day: 27 April
- Workers’ Day: 1 May
- Youth Day: 16 June
- Special school holiday: 15 June
- Winter holidays: 27 June to 20 July
Third Term
- Starts: 21 July 2026
- Ends: 23 September 2026
- Public holidays:
- National Women’s Day: 9 and 10 August
Fourth Term
- Starts: 6 October 2026
- Ends: 9 December 2026
- Public holidays:
- Day of Reconciliation: 16 December
- Christmas Day: 25 December
- Day of Goodwill: 26 December
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Gauteng families, the return to school signals a shift back into structured routines, transport planning, and daily scheduling. Traffic volumes are expected to increase during peak hours as school related travel resumes.
Working parents may also need to readjust childcare arrangements, particularly after the short Easter break.
The early term long weekends may provide temporary flexibility for families, but the overall pace of the term remains demanding. Schools are expected to maintain strict academic schedules, with limited disruption.
For learners, this period is critical for academic progression, especially for those in exam grades.
Attendance and Readiness Under Focus
Education authorities continue to stress the importance of punctuality and consistent attendance, particularly at the start of the term.
Schools are expected to:
- Begin teaching immediately
- Monitor learner attendance closely
- Implement academic plans without delay
According to the department, early engagement in the term helps prevent learning gaps that can affect performance later in the year.
FAQ: Second Term School Return
When did schools reopen for the second term?
Public schools reopened on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
How long is the second term?
The term runs from 8 April to 26 June 2026.
Are there any breaks during the term?
Yes. Schools close briefly from 24 April and reopen on 28 April, followed by public holidays including Workers’ Day.
Why is the second term considered important?
It includes key academic assessments and preparation for mid year exams.
When do schools close after the second term?
Schools close on 26 June 2026, followed by winter holidays until 20 July.
What Happens Next
Schools across Gauteng are expected to settle into full academic schedules within days of reopening. Education departments will continue monitoring attendance, curriculum progress, and school readiness throughout the term.
With multiple public holidays and short breaks built into the calendar, the focus now shifts to maintaining learning continuity while balancing the demands of a compressed academic period.
