Xanet Scheepers

By Xanet Scheepers

Digital Lifestyle Editor


DBE releases official 2021 school calendar

After a two-month holiday, students will finally head back to the classroom on 15 February.


The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has released the official 2021 school calendar, including term dates and public holidays.

The 2021 academic year has been shortened by 15 days.

The year kicked off on an uncertain note for parents and learners when the dates for the reopening of schools were moved twice.

Parents can now finally breathe a sigh of relief as schools will be officially opening on 15 February 2021, the department confirmed on Tuesday morning.

ALSO SEE: Independent schools turn to online learning as govt delays opening schools

Here’s what the new school calendar for 2021 looks like

Learners will be heading back to the classroom for the first term from 15 February until 23 April 2021. They will then be on break for a week.

The second term will run from 3 May until 9 July when schools will close for two weeks before they resume again for the third term.

The third term will start on 26 July and end on 1 October. Schools will then close for 10 days before resuming the fourth term.

The fourth term will start on 11 October and schools will then close for the year on 15 December.

Download the full school calendar, including school holidays and public holidays, below

2021 school calendar 

ALSO READ: PICS: Back to school for private schools, public school teachers also return

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Department of Basic Education (DBE)

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