South Africa’s June School Holidays: Winter Vibes from 27 June to 15 July 2025
As winter wraps South Africa in its chilly embrace, public schools are gearing up to close for the June School Holidays. According to the 2025 South Africa Public School Calendar, published by the Department of Basic Education (Government Gazette, No. 47972, 31 January 2023), schools are set to shut on 27 June 2025, marking the end of the second term. They’ll swing open again on 15 July 2025 for the third term. This two-week break is a golden opportunity for learners, teachers, and families to hit pause, have some fun, and prep for the road ahead.
What Makes 27 June School Holidays a Big Moment?
When schools close on 27 June, it’s like a collective sigh of relief after the second term’s hustle. Learners get a break from exams and assignments, while teachers tackle their marking and plan for the next term. For parents, it’s time to get creative with keeping the kids entertained while managing work and winter weather.
The timing ties in nicely with Youth Day on 16 June, a public holiday honouring the 1976 Soweto Uprising. In the weeks before the June School Holidays break, schools often dive into lessons or activities about this pivotal moment, encouraging kids to reflect on South Africa’s history and the power of youth. It’s a meaningful lead-up to the holidays, setting a reflective mood.
Living It Up During the June School Holidays Break
From 27 June to 15 July, the holiday vibe takes over. In places like Durban or Joburg, you might find kids at winter camps, sports clinics, or even drama workshops. In rural areas, where those options are fewer, families often lean on community events or home-based activities like board games or baking. The Department’s “Read to Lead” campaign, flagged in the 2025 calendar, reminds learners to crack open a book to keep their minds sharp.
The June School Holidays break can be tricky for some families, especially those who rely on school meals. NGOs and government programmes often step up with food support, while parents can plan budget-friendly outings—like a trip to the local library or a chilly hike—to keep the kids happy without breaking the bank.
Back to Class on 15 July
Come 15 July, it’s time to swap holiday PJs for school uniforms as the third term kicks off. This term is crucial, especially for Grade 12s eyeing their matric exams. Teachers might set some holiday homework to keep learners on track, and schools use the break to fix up facilities, ensuring everything’s ready for the return. The 2025 calendar, approved by the former Minister Angie Motshekga under the National Education Policy Act, keeps the year structured to help learners thrive.
What’s the Next Holiday?
After the June break, the next school holiday isn’t far off. Based on typical South African school calendars, the third term usually wraps up in late September, leading into a short spring break. Below is a table with the expected dates for the next holiday period:
| Holiday Period | Closing Date | Reopening Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| September/October 2025 | 26 September 2025 | 7 October 2025 | ~11 days |
This break, often around late September to early October, gives everyone a chance to enjoy the warmer spring weather before diving into the final term of 2025.
Wrapping Up
The June holidays, from 27 June to 15 July 2025, are a time to recharge and make memories, whether you’re a learner catching up on sleep, a teacher planning lessons, or a parent organising family adventures. With the next break in September just around the corner, there’s plenty to look forward to as the year rolls on. So, embrace the winter chill, and come back ready to shine when schools reopen on 15 July!
June School Holidays FAQ
When exactly do schools close and reopen for the June holidays in 2025?
Schools are expected to close on 27 June 2025, marking the end of the second term, and reopen on 15 July 2025 for the start of the third term, as outlined in the 2025 South Africa Public School Calendar from the Department of Basic Education. This gives learners and teachers about two weeks off.
What can kids do during the June holidays to stay busy?
There’s loads to do! In cities like Cape Town or Joburg, kids can join winter camps, sports clinics, or workshops like art or coding. In rural areas, families might focus on community events, home activities like baking, or reading to keep up with the “Read to Lead” campaign. Budget-friendly outings to local libraries or parks are also great options.
How can families cope if they rely on school feeding programmes during the holidays?
The June break can be tough for families who depend on school meals. Many NGOs and government programmes step in with food parcels or community feeding schemes to help. Families can also contact local community centres or schools before the holidays to find out about support in their area.
Will learners have homework over the June holidays?
It’s likely! Teachers often set holiday homework or revision tasks, especially for older learners like Grade 12s prepping for matric exams. This helps kids stay on track for the third term, which starts on 15 July. Check with your child’s school for specific assignments before the break.
When is the next school holiday after the June break?
The next holiday comes at the end of the third term, typically in late September. Based on standard school calendars, schools are expected to close around 26 September 2025 and reopen on 7 October 2025, giving about 11 days off for a spring break before the final term of the year.
