October 2025 holidays also bring with an official academic calendar published by the Department of Basic Education for schools throughout South Africa. This amended calendar included the main deadlines for the ends of terms and exam schedules, as well as holiday breaks. Parents, teachers, and learners are asked to familiarize themselves with these changes to properly plan the remaining part of the school year.
October 2025 Key Highlights
October is a very busy month within the academic calendar because it finalizes the third term and serves as the landing pad for national preparations:
- Continue with Term 3 until the first week of October.
- Spring Holiday for Learners in Public Schools.
- Term 4 to begin, which is largely busy with revision and assessments.
The changes are put in place to allow balanced rest for students and yet enough time for learning before examinations.
Important Dates to Remember
Critical dates of the October 2025 academic calendar are as follows:
- Term 3 Ends- Friday, 3 October 2025.
- Spring Break – 6 October to 10 October 2025.
- Term 4 Begins- Monday, 13 October 2025.
Preparations for Matric Final Exams: The period of revision and mock sessions meant to prepare the learners for final assessments will be intensified in schools from mid-October. Variations to these dates may be observed from province to province due to work disruptions earlier in the year or local requirements of the schools.
Effect on Teachers, Parents, and Learners
The October calendar would guide parents in planning family activities, child care, and travelling during the brief spring break. Parents in particular need to assist Grade 12 learners with revision time and encourage their effective use of the break. October is viewed as a crucial teaching period by teachers; since the syllabus is mostly completed, teachers will make October largely available for exam preparations, revision classes, and practical assessments.
For learners, October remains one of the most critical academic months of the year. Senior learners will be concentrating on consolidating knowledge and putting a cap on revision, while junior grades will be doing projects and preparing for promotional exams.
Preparations for the Final Term
The Department of Basic Education advises families to:
- Confirm specific provincial school schedules.
- Ensure learners attend all revision sessions in October.
- Use the short spring holiday for both rest and study preparation.
- Stay updated through official school and district notices in case of last-minute adjustments.
- By staying organized and informed, students and parents can make the most of October 2025 and head into the final term with confidence.
Also Read: South Africa Pension Boost 2025: Who Qualifies And When Payments Are Due