Schools break for Half-Term from 23rd February 2026

Learners going home after school closures.

Schools break for Half-Term from 23rd February 2026: Parents, Students Urged to Prioritize Safety and Productivity

Schools across Kenya will break for half-term beginning 23rd, marking a short but important pause in the academic calendar. Education stakeholders led by ACTT Digital Media are now calling on parents and students to use the break wisely, balancing rest with responsibility.

Parents have been advised to plan early for their children’s travel arrangements to ensure safety, particularly for those in boarding schools. Guardians are encouraged to personally pick up learners where possible or make secure transport arrangements.

They are also urged to monitor their children’s movements during the holiday and remain vigilant to safeguard them from risky behaviors and negative peer influence.

Education experts emphasize that half-term should not translate into academic disengagement. Students are encouraged to revise their coursework, complete assignments, and prepare for upcoming assessments. Candidates in examination classes have been particularly advised to remain focused, as the academic year is already progressing quickly.

The break also presents an opportunity for families to bond and address any academic or social concerns. Teachers recommend that parents take time to review their children’s progress, discuss goals for the term, and offer guidance where necessary.

Learners are further reminded to observe discipline both at home and in public spaces, avoid dangerous activities, and adhere to health and safety guidelines.
With proper planning and supervision, the half-term break can be both refreshing and productive.

Schools are expected to reopen promptly after the short recess, and students have been urged to report back on time, ready to resume learning with renewed energy and focus.

Upon resumption, learners will continue with their academic and extracurricular activities; with the latter going to the County level.

2026 Academic Calendar (Basic Education)

Term 1: January 5, 2026 – April 2, 2026 (13 weeks)
- Half-term: February 25, 2026 – March 1, 2026
- April Holiday: April 3, 2026 – April 26, 2026
Term 2: April 27, 2026 – July 31, 2026 (14 weeks)
- Half-term: June 24, 2026 – June 28, 2026
- August Holiday: August 3, 2026 – August 21, 2026
Term 3: August 24, 2026 – October 23, 2026 (9 weeks)
- December Holiday: October 26, 2026 – January 1, 2027