Explore the 2025/2026 Academic Calendar for Basic Schools
Here is the full 2025/2026 academic calendar for basic schools in Ghana.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially released the 2025/2026 academic calendar for basic schools, and it’s packed with vital information that every parent, teacher, and student should be aware of.
Term-by-Term Academic Calendar Summary
- First Term (15 Weeks)
- Reopening Date: 2nd September, 2025
- Closing Date: 18th December, 2025
- Vacation: 19th December 2025 – 7th January 2026
- Mid-Term Break: 31st October – 3rd November 2025 (2 days)
The first term for all basic schools, Kindergarten, Primary, and Junior High School starts on 2nd September 2025, marking a full return to academic activities after the long August vacation.
This 15-week term will run till 18th December 2025, allowing ample time for syllabus coverage, assessments, and co-curricular engagements.
The mid-term break is scheduled for the end of October, precisely 31st October to 3rd November 2025, giving both teachers and students a brief but necessary breather.
Second Term (12 Weeks)
- Reopening Date: 8th January, 2026
- Closing Date: 1st April, 2026
- Vacation: 2nd April – 20th April, 2026
The second term kicks off just after the New Year on 8th January 2026. Spanning 12 weeks, this term is shorter and runs till 1st April 2026.
Schools will then observe their Easter break from 2nd to 20th April 2026. This term is crucial for final preparations for the upcoming BECE exams, especially for JHS 3 students.
Third Term (13 Weeks)
- Reopening Date: 21st April, 2026
- Closing Date: 23rd July, 2026
- Vacation: 24th July, 2026 onwards
The third and final term begins on 21st April 2026 and ends on 23rd July 2026. This 13-week period wraps up the academic year, covering all remaining content, co-curricular events, end-of-term examinations, and graduation ceremonies for various year groups.
BECE 2026 Examination Date Confirmed
One of the most anticipated parts of the calendar is the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) date. According to GES, the BECE 2026 has been officially scheduled from Monday, 4th May 2026 – Friday, 11th May 2026.
This early second-term date emphasizes the need for JHS 3 students and teachers to finalize all preparations during the first term and early second term. It also means mock exams and revision plans must be completed well before April 2026.
Key Dates Summary
Term Reopening Closing Mid-Term Break Vacation
First Term 2nd Sept 2025 18th Dec 2025 31st Oct – 3rd Nov 2025 19th Dec – 7th Jan 2026
Second Term 8th Jan 2026 1st Apr 2026 N/A 2nd Apr – 20th Apr 2026
Third Term 21st Apr 2026 23rd Jul 2026 N/A 24th Jul 2026 onwards
Why This Calendar Matters
Understanding the academic calendar helps all stakeholders plan ahead.
1. For Parents and Guardians: It helps with organizing vacations, extra classes, and holiday plans.
2. For Teachers and School Heads: Enables lesson planning, assessment schedules, and administrative coordination.
3. For Students: Gives clarity on study timelines, exams, and breaks.
Being ahead of the calendar also reduces stress and confusion around reopening or vacation dates, ensuring every learner is well-prepared throughout the year.
Public Holidays and Mid-Term Breaks
GES has emphasized that public holidays within the academic year will be duly observed as per national regulations.
Schools are advised to accommodate these dates without disrupting syllabus coverage.
Mid-term breaks, especially the one scheduled in the first term are meant to refresh both teaching and learning energies. Schools must honor these dates for better academic health and student welfare.
GES’ Call to Action for Stakeholders
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has called on all stakeholders, school heads, teachers, parents, and guardians to take note of these dates and align academic and personal plans accordingly.
They also acknowledged the commitment of all parties for the success of the 2024/2025 academic year, which ends officially on Thursday, 24th July, 2025.
Heads of schools are also advised to strictly follow this calendar and avoid ad hoc closures or extensions that could affect learning outcomes.
Final Thoughts on 2025/2026 Academic Calendar for Basic Schools
The release of the 2025/2026 academic calendar for basic schools is more than just dates.
It is a roadmap for planning, preparation, and academic success. Whether you’re a
Source: quarmsmedia.com