To ensure that students stay on track, it is crucial to understand the school calendar. The Ministry of Education has released the 2024 term dates for Pre-primary, Primary, and Secondary schools, which outlines the beginning and end of each term, the scheduled holidays, and the duration of the school terms.
In this article, we break down the key dates and events in the 2024 school calendar, ensuring that you are fully informed about what to expect in the coming year.
Term I (8th January 2024 – 5th April 2024) – 13 Weeks
The first term kicks off on Monday, 8th January 2024 and runs for 13 weeks, concluding on Friday, 5th April 2024.
- Half-term Break: A short break is scheduled from 29th February 2024 to 3rd March 2024, giving both students and teachers a chance to recharge for the remainder of the term.
- April Holiday: The long April holiday follows the end of Term I, running from 8th April to 26th April 2024, offering a 3-week vacation before the beginning of the second term.
Term II (29th April 2024 – 2nd August 2024) – 14 Weeks
Term II starts on Monday, 29th April 2024, running for a duration of 14 weeks until Friday, 2nd August 2024.
- Half-term Break: Another half-term break is planned from 20th June to 23rd June 2024.
- August Holiday: After the end of Term II, the August holiday runs from 5th August 2024 to 23rd August 2024, providing students with 3 weeks of rest before they return for Term III.
Term III (26th August 2024 – 25th October 2024) – 9 Weeks
The third and final term of the year starts on Monday, 26th August 2024, and ends on Friday, 25th October 2024, lasting 9 weeks.
- KPSEA and KILEA Assessments: Scheduled from 28th October to 31st October 2024, these four days are crucial for learners in pre-primary and lower primary who will sit for their final year assessments.
- KCSE Exams: These exams for secondary school students will be held from 4th November to 22nd November 2024. It’s an intense period for candidates preparing to complete their secondary education.
- December Holiday: The long December holiday begins on 28th October 2024 and extends until 3rd January 2025, giving students a 10-week break before the next academic year.
Tabulated Term Dates for 2024:
| TERM DATES 2024 | OPENING | CLOSING | DURATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term I | 8th Jan 2024 | 5th April 2024 | 13 Weeks |
| Half Term (Term I) | 29th Feb 2024 | 3rd March 2024 | 3 Days |
| April Holiday | 8th April 2024 | 26th April 2024 | 3 Weeks |
| Term II | 29th April 2024 | 2nd Aug 2024 | 14 Weeks |
| Half Term (Term II) | 20th June 2024 | 23rd June 2024 | 3 Days |
| August Holiday | 5th Aug 2024 | 23rd Aug 2024 | 3 Weeks |
| Term III | 26th Aug 2024 | 25th Oct 2024 | 9 Weeks |
| KPSEA and KILEA Assessments | 28th Oct 2024 | 31st Oct 2024 | 4 Days |
| KCSE Exams | 4th Nov 2024 | 22nd Nov 2024 | 3 Weeks |
| December Holiday | 28th Oct 2024 | 3rd Jan 2025 | 10 Weeks |
Key Takeaways for Parents and Students
- Plan for the Holidays: With the Ministry’s clear scheduling, parents can easily organize family holidays and ensure that students have enough time for rest and revision during school breaks.
- Assessment Dates: Both the KPSEA and KILEA assessments, as well as the KCSE exams, have been given specific dates. Ensure your child is well-prepared, especially during Term III, as this term leads directly to the assessment period.
- Half-Term Breaks: Half-term breaks allow students to take a brief pause from their studies and come back refreshed. These short breaks also provide an opportunity for parents to assess their children’s progress and discuss it with teachers.
- Minimize Disruptions: With the 2024 school calendar mapped out, parents are advised to minimize disruptions by planning appointments, family events, and vacations during the official holidays.
In conclusion, understanding the 2024 school term dates in Kenya is vital for effective planning. Parents and students are encouraged to use this calendar to stay ahead and prepare for the academic year. Whether it’s preparing for final exams or enjoying the holidays, being aware of the school dates helps everyone stay on track.
