Introduction

As the year 2023 comes to an end, South African parents and students are already looking forward to the 2024 school calendar. This calendar provides a roadmap for the academic year, outlining important dates such as school holidays, exam periods, and other key events. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 2024 South African school calendar, highlighting some of the key dates and answering some of the most frequently asked questions.

When Does the School Year Start and End?

The 2024 school year in South Africa officially starts on January 15th for all public and private schools. The first term runs from January 15th to April 5th, followed by a two-week break. The second term begins on April 23rd and runs until June 28th, followed by a three-week winter break. The third term starts on July 22nd and runs until September 27th, followed by a one-week break. The final term starts on October 14th and runs until December 10th.

Question: Are These Dates the Same for All Schools?

Yes, these dates are the same for all public and private schools in South Africa. However, schools may choose to adjust their own schedules based on their particular needs.

When Are the School Holidays?

The school holidays for 2024 are as follows:

• Easter Holidays: April 6th – April 22nd
• Winter Holidays: June 29th – July 21st
• September Holidays: September 28th – October 13th
• December Holidays: December 11th – January 14th, 2025

Question: Can Schools Change the Holiday Dates?

No, schools cannot change the holiday dates as they are set by the Department of Basic Education.

When Are the Exam Periods?

The exam periods for 2024 are as follows:

• First Term Exams: April 8th – April 18th
• Second Term Exams: July 1st – July 12th
• Third Term Exams: October 1st – October 11th
• Final Exams: November 4th – December 6th

Question: What Happens if a Student Misses an Exam?

If a student misses an exam due to illness or other extenuating circumstances, they will need to provide a medical certificate or other documentation to their school. The school will then make arrangements for the student to write a supplementary exam at a later date.

Conclusion

The 2024 South African school calendar provides a clear roadmap for the academic year, outlining important dates such as school holidays and exam periods. While schools may choose to adjust their own schedules, the dates for the 2024 academic year are set by the Department of Basic Education. As a parent or student, it’s important to familiarize yourself with these dates to ensure a successful academic year.