Polish School Year Calendar 2026: 20 Key Dates Guide
Polish School Year Calendar 2026 is one of the most important planning tools for expat families living in Poland. Whether your child attends a public Polish school, a private institution, or an international school in Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław, understanding the structure of the academic year will help you plan holidays, childcare, travel, and work commitments with confidence.
In this comprehensive guide, you will find confirmed dates for the 2025/2026 academic year (which runs through 2026), a breakdown of winter break changes, regional differences, Easter and summer holidays, as well as cost estimates for camps and childcare. Furthermore, we explain how Polish schools differ from international schools and where to verify official updates.
Most importantly, this article is designed specifically for expat parents who need clarity, predictability, and practical advice.
Structure of the Polish School Year 2025/2026
The Polish academic year always begins on 1 September and ends in late June. However, if 1 September falls on a weekend, the start moves to the next working day.
- First day of school: 1 September 2025 (Monday)
- Last day of classes: 26 June 2026 (Friday)
- Summer holidays: 27 June – 31 August 2026
- New school year begins: 1 September 2026 (Tuesday)
Therefore, when discussing the Polish School Year Calendar 2026, we are referring to the academic year 2025/2026, which includes all school holidays occurring in 2026.
Official confirmation is published annually by the Ministry of Education (MEN). You can verify updates at Source.
Winter Break 2026: Major Changes You Should Know
One of the most significant updates in the Polish School Year Calendar 2026 is the adjustment of winter holidays (ferie zimowe). Traditionally held in February, they have been shifted earlier, beginning in mid-January and running until early March depending on the region.
According to official announcements covered by Source, the change aims to reduce overcrowding in ski resorts and tourist destinations.
Winter Break Dates by Voivodeship
| Dates | Voivodeships |
|---|---|
| 19 January – 1 February 2026 | Lubelskie, Łódzkie, Podkarpackie, Pomorskie, Śląskie, Mazowieckie, Podlaskie, Świętokrzyskie, Warmińsko-Mazurskie |
| 2 – 15 February 2026 | Dolnośląskie, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Małopolskie, Opolskie, Zachodniopomorskie |
| 16 February – 1 March 2026 | Lubuskie, Wielkopolskie, selected regions of Śląskie and others |
However, regional allocations may be adjusted by local education authorities. Therefore, always confirm with your regional school superintendent (Kuratorium Oświaty): Source.
Christmas Break 2025/2026
Christmas holidays in the Polish School Year Calendar 2026 cover:
- 22–31 December 2025 (official school break)
In addition, public holidays such as 1 January (New Year’s Day) and 6 January (Epiphany) extend the festive period. As a result, children often return to school in the first or second week of January.
In contrast, international schools like the American School of Warsaw may extend the holiday until 9 January 2026.
Spring Break / Easter 2026
Easter break in 2026 falls between:
- 2 – 7 April 2026
Easter Sunday in 2026 is on 5 April. Therefore, students receive several consecutive days off including Good Friday (in many schools), Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday (public holiday).
Public holidays in May also impact school attendance:
- 1 May – Labour Day
- 3 May – Constitution Day (Source)
Most importantly, schools often create a “long weekend” (majówka) if these dates fall midweek.
Summer Holidays 2026
Summer break begins immediately after the end of the academic year:
- 27 June – 31 August 2026
Therefore, children have over two full months of holiday. For working expat parents, this period requires significant planning.
Additional Headteacher Days (Dni Dyrektorskie)
Schools may assign additional free days during the academic year:
- Primary schools: up to 6 days
- Secondary schools: 6–8 days
- Post-secondary institutions: up to 10 days
These often surround public holidays such as:
- 1 November – All Saints’ Day
- 11 November – Independence Day
- Early May holidays
As a result, always request the internal school calendar in September.
Public vs International Schools: Key Differences
The Polish School Year Calendar 2026 applies strictly to public institutions. However, international schools may follow:
- US-style calendar (August–June)
- British-style terms
- Additional autumn break (October)
- Thanksgiving holidays
For example, American curriculum schools often include:
- Autumn Break (October 2025)
- Thanksgiving (late November)
- Extended Christmas until early January
Therefore, expat families must compare calendars carefully before booking flights.
Holiday Camp Costs in 2026
Childcare during school breaks is a major consideration. Below are estimated 2026 costs (adjusted for inflation 4–6%):
| Type of Camp | Duration | Estimated Cost (PLN) |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Camp (Ferie) | 7–14 days | 1,500 – 3,000 PLN |
| Summer Camp (Obóz) | 14 days | 2,000 – 5,000 PLN |
| City Day Camps | 5 days | 600 – 1,200 PLN |
In addition, premium English-language camps may exceed these ranges. For more family budgeting tips, visit Read more about Money on Poland Radar.
How to Verify Official Dates
Because regional differences exist, verification is essential.
- Check the Ministry of Education website.
- Confirm with your local Kuratorium.
- Request your school’s annual calendar in September.
Furthermore, expat parents new to Poland may find our relocation resources helpful: Read more Guides on Poland Radar.
Planning Tips for Expat Families
Managing the Polish School Year Calendar 2026 efficiently requires proactive organization.
- Book winter holidays by October 2025.
- Reserve summer camps by March 2026.
- Coordinate leave with your employer early.
- Plan around May long weekends.
Most importantly, remember that Polish schools do not provide structured summer programs. Therefore, childcare solutions are essential for working parents.
FAQ – Polish School Year Calendar 2026
1. When does the Polish School Year Calendar 2026 end?
The academic year ends on 26 June 2026, with summer holidays starting the next day.
2. Why were winter holidays moved earlier in 2026?
The Ministry shifted them to reduce tourist congestion and improve regional distribution.
3. Are school holidays the same across Poland?
Christmas, Easter, and summer breaks are national. However, winter holidays differ by voivodeship.
4. Do international schools follow the same calendar?
No. Many follow US or UK systems and include additional breaks.
5. How long is summer break in Poland?
Summer holidays last from 27 June to 31 August 2026 — over two months.
Summary
In summary, the Polish School Year Calendar 2026 includes major structural changes, particularly the earlier winter break schedule. Therefore, expat parents should verify regional dates, account for additional school-specific days off, and budget for camps well in advance. With proper planning, understanding the Polish School Year Calendar 2026 will help your family avoid surprises and organize the year efficiently.
