Manchester school term dates 2023/24: When do kids go back and rules on school absences

Sofia Fedeczko
By Sofia Fedeczko
Published 18th Aug 2023, 11:31 BST
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Here is when all the school holidays will be taking place in Manchester in 2023/24 .

The school summer holidays are almost over and kids across Manchester are preparing for the first day of term.

And while many people will be clinging on to the remnants of summer, some parents will be eager to get ahead of the game and start planning for the next school holidays, including half terms, Christmas, Easter and even next summer.

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Luckily, Manchester City Council has already released the full list of term dates for the forthcoming academic year, which means you can start looking at dates for your next getaway. Here is the full list.

This is when Sheffield children go back to school for the 2023/24 academic year, as well as when holidays start including half term and ChristmasThis is when Sheffield children go back to school for the 2023/24 academic year, as well as when holidays start including half term and Christmas
This is when Sheffield children go back to school for the 2023/24 academic year, as well as when holidays start including half term and Christmas

Manchester school term dates – 2023/24

First day of term: Monday 4 September, 2023

Half term holiday

School closes: Friday 20 October, 2023

School opens: Monday 30 October, 2023

Christmas holiday

School closes: Friday 15 December, 2023

School opens:  Tuesday 2 January, 2024

Half term holiday

School closes: Friday 16 February, 2024

School opens:  Monday 26 February, 2024

Easter holiday

School closes: Thursday 28 March, 2024

School opens:  Monday 15 April, 2024

Bank holiday: School closes Monday 6 May, 2024

Half term holiday

School closes: Friday 24 May, 2024

School opens:  Monday 3 June, 2024

Summer holiday

School closes: Wednesday 24 July, 2024

Please note, that while most Manchester schools will follow these holiday dates, some voluntary-aided, foundation, or academy schools may differ. The council advises that you check with the individual school if you are in doubt.

Can I take family holidays during term time?

Manchester City Council has strict rules about school attendance and will issue fines for unauthorised absences.

School absences will not be issued for family celebrations, birthday treats, day trips, long weekends, taking the rest of the day after a medical or dental appointment, hair appointments and oversleeping.

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There are very few reasons why a school absence would be authorised, and this can only be granted by a headteacher, who will require a full explanation and may ask for further evidence to support your request.

More information about school absences can be found on the Manchester City Council website. 

Related topics:ManchesterParentsPeopleSchools

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