The Ministry of Education has officially released the 2026 school calendar for all learning institutions in Kenya.
The newly issued term dates are designed to provide clarity for students, teachers, and parents as the country transitions to the academic year under the competency-based curriculum (CBC).
This comprehensive guide outlines major changes, crucial dates, and expert tips for maximizing learning and planning ahead.
School Calendar Overview for 2026
First Term:
- Opening Date: January 5, 2026
- Half-Term Break: February 25 – March 1, 2026 (5 days)
- Closing Date: April 2, 2026
- Holiday: April 7 – April 24, 2026 (3 weeks)
Learners will enjoy a well-structured first term spanning 13 weeks before the April holiday, offering ample academic time and a vital mid-term respite.
Second Term:
- Reopening: April 27, 2026
- Half-Term Break: June 24 – June 28, 2026
- Closing Date: July 31, 2026
- Holiday: August 1 – August 21, 2026 (3 weeks)
The second term runs for 14 weeks, with a strategic five-day half-term break to ensure learners and teachers can recharge.
Third Term:
- Reopening: August 24, 2026
- Closing Date: October 23, 2026 (9 weeks)
- Holiday: October 24, 2026 – January 1, 2027 (10 weeks)
The third and final term is the shortest, with no mid-term break to allow for a focused conclusion ahead of major national examinations.
National Exam Dates for 2026
KPSEA (Kenya Primary School Education Assessment), KILEA, KJSEA:
- Start Date: October 26, 2026
- End Date: October 29, 2026 (KPSEA), plus additional assessments for other levels
KPLEA (Pre-Vocational Level):
- Start Date: November 2, 2026
KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education):
- Start Date: November 2, 2026
- End Date: November 20, 2026
Major exams—including new assessments under CBC—will take place immediately after third term ends, allowing learners adequate preparation and transition time.
Calendar for Diploma Teacher Training Colleges (DTTCs)
- Term 1: January 6 – April 2, 2026
- Term 2: April 27 – July 31, 2026
- Term 3: August 24 – November 6, 2026
- December Holiday: November 9, 2026 – January 1, 2027
Key Changes and Highlights
No More Collecting KCPE, KCSE Certificates in Schools: Learners will benefit from streamlined certificate distribution.
- Third Term Policy: All non-essential activities and visits to secondary schools will remain banned during Term 3, per Ministry guidelines.
- Competency-Based Curriculum: All exams align with CBC design, including new levels (KPSEA, KILEA, KJSEA, KPLEA) alongside KCSE.
- Holiday Structure: Long December holiday ensures families have ample time to reconnect and for learners to prepare for the next year.
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Expert Tips for Parents, Learners, and Teachers
- Mark all key dates: Avoid last-minute rush by noting term schedules and exam timetable on your calendar.
- Plan family events around school holidays: With clear term breaks, families can maximize vacation and travel planning.
- Stay informed via official channels: Visit the Ministry of Education website or trusted news sites for updates.
- Monitor exam prep: Utilize the extended holidays for revision, extra lessons, or relaxation before major exams.
- Teacher training colleges: Leverage synchronized schedules for smooth transitions, planning, and further studies.
What This Means for You
The new 2026 school calendar gives clarity and stability for all stakeholders—parents can plan ahead, learners can prepare for exams, and educators can create effective teaching programs.
The government’s focus on CBC will further enhance educational outcomes as Kenya moves towards a more skills-oriented curriculum. To maximize your 2026, always use these dates for proactive planning and stay tuned to official Ministry communications for possible changes or updates.
