Official Date Revealed: All Primary & Secondary Schools to Close on October 23 as Long Holiday Begin

The Ministry of Education has confirmed that all primary and secondary schools across Kenya will officially close on Friday, October 23, marking the end of the third term and the start of the long holiday.

According to the official 2026 basic education academic calendar, non-candidate learners will break for a 10-week end-of-year vacation starting October 26 and lasting through January 1.

Crucial Rehearsal & National Examinations Timeline

While non-candidate students pack up for the holiday on October 23, national assessment candidates will remain in school to prepare for their examinations:

October 23 (Friday): Rehearsal day for candidate classes, including the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA).

October 26 – October 29: KPSEA exams for Grade 6 learners.

October 26 – October 30: KJSEA exams for Grade 9 candidates.

November 2 – November 20: Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) main written exams for Form 4 students.

Key Reminders for Parents & Guardians

Extended Stay at Home: Non-candidate learners will enjoy an extended break before returning for the start of the 2027 academic year in early January.

Third-Term Guidelines: The Ministry of Education maintains a strict ban on non-academic activities, school visits, and social events during Term 3 to give candidate classes ample time to focus on national examinations.

Safety & Preparation: Parents are advised to make early travel arrangements and monitor their children closely throughout the 10-week vacation period.

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