School holidays are more than just breaks from the classroom—they’re valuable opportunities for families to rest, reconnect, and plan meaningful activities together. For parents in North Lanarkshire, staying updated on the official school holiday calendar is essential for organising childcare, scheduling family trips, and making sure children stay on top of their studies.
This guide provides a complete overview of North Lanarkshire school holidays 2025, including term dates, mid-term breaks, and public holidays. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or student, this resource will help you plan the year ahead with confidence.
Overview of North Lanarkshire School Calendar
In North Lanarkshire, the local council sets official term dates for primary, secondary, and special schools. These dates are largely consistent across the region, though individual schools may sometimes adjust for teacher training days (in-service days).
It’s also important to note that Scottish public holidays and bank holidays influence the school calendar. Parents are advised to double-check with their child’s school for any specific variations.
Read also: How Old Are Kids in Each Grade? A Clear Breakdown for Parents
North Lanarkshire School Holidays 2025: Full Term Dates
Here is the school term and holiday schedule for 2025 in an easy-to-read table format.
| Term | Start Date | Holiday/Break | End Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Term 2025 | Monday, 6 January | Mid-Term: 10–11 FebIn-Service: 12 FebEaster Break: 31 Mar – 11 Apr | Friday, 28 March |
| Summer Term 2025 | Monday, 14 April | May Day: 5 May In-Service: 6 May Mid-Term: 23–26 May | Friday, 27 June |
| Autumn Term 2025 | Monday, 18 August | September Break: 26–29 SepOctober Break: 13–17 OctIn-Service: 20 Oct | Friday, 19 December |
| Winter Term 2025 | Monday, 20 October | Christmas Holiday: 22 Dec – 2 Jan 2026 | Friday, 19 December |
👉 Always confirm dates directly with your child’s school, as slight adjustments may occur.
Bank Holidays & Public Holidays in North Lanarkshire
Alongside term breaks, parents should also be aware of UK-wide and Scottish public holidays that affect schools in North Lanarkshire. Key dates include:
- New Year’s Day: 1 January 2025
- 2 January Holiday (Scotland)
- Good Friday: 18 April 2025
- Easter Monday: 21 April 2025
- May Day: 5 May 2025
- Christmas Day: 25 December 2025
- Boxing Day: 26 December 2025
These holidays often align with school closures, but are worth keeping in mind for family planning.
Why School Holidays Matter for Parents
For many families, school holidays can feel like a juggling act. Here are a few reasons why they are especially important for parents:
- Family Vacations: School breaks provide the perfect chance to travel without disrupting studies.
- Childcare Planning: Parents who work full-time often need to arrange childcare well in advance.
- Study Balance: Breaks are useful for revision, especially for older students preparing for exams.
- Extracurricular Time: Holidays give children opportunities to explore hobbies, sports, and creative interests.
By knowing the full calendar early, parents can reduce stress and make the most of these breaks.
Read also: What Age Do Children Start School in the UK? Your Simple Guide
Tips for Parents: Making the Most of School Holidays
North Lanarkshire offers plenty of opportunities for families to enjoy their time together during school holidays. Here are a few practical ideas:
- Explore Local Attractions: Visit family-friendly sites such as Strathclyde Country Park, Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life, or Drumpellier Country Park.
- Plan Budget-Friendly Activities: Free community events, library reading programs, and home-based projects can keep kids engaged without breaking the bank.
- Balance Fun with Learning: Encourage children to mix leisure with educational activities like puzzles, science kits, or family reading sessions.
- Stay Active: Swimming, cycling, or family sports days are great ways to keep children healthy and entertained.
With a little planning, holidays can be both enjoyable and enriching.
Useful Resources for Parents
To make sure you always have the latest information, here are a few helpful resources:
- North Lanarkshire Council – School Term Dates: Official Council Website
- Parent Information Pages: Local school websites and newsletters.
- Scottish Government Education Portal: Provides updates on education policies and term structures.
Bookmarking these sites ensures you won’t miss any updates or changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do all schools in North Lanarkshire follow the same holiday dates?
Most schools follow the council’s calendar, but some may vary slightly due to in-service or training days. Always confirm with your child’s school.
2. How can I confirm my child’s exact term dates?
Check the official North Lanarkshire Council website or your school’s newsletter for any updates.
3. Are childcare services available during school holidays?
Yes, many community centres, after-school clubs, and private childcare providers offer holiday programs. Booking early is recommended.
4. Can holidays differ between primary and secondary schools?
In general, term dates are aligned, but teacher training days may differ. Double-check directly with your child’s school.
Conclusion
Planning ahead is the key to making the most of North Lanarkshire school holidays 2025. From mid-term breaks to Christmas holidays, knowing the official term dates helps parents arrange childcare, family outings, and study schedules with ease.
Keep this guide handy, and remember to double-check with your child’s school for any last-minute updates. With the right planning, every school holiday can become an opportunity for growth, relaxation, and family fun.
Read also: What Age Do Kids Start School In The UK? A Complete Guide for Parents
Written by Doris Wheelock, Parenting & Education Writer at kidsmagazines.co.uk