TERM time dates for council-controlled primary and secondary schools across Barnsley in 2026/27 have been confirmed.
The first day of the 2026 school year will be September 1, in line with other local authorities.
A report said: “Having reviewed various options for the school term dates during the academic year 2026/27, the Yorkshire and Humber region’s guiding principles were applied as far as possible and, upon liaising with neighbouring local authorities, the consensus was to start the academic year on Tuesday September 1, 2026.
“This is the day after the August bank holiday which is unusual, however most schools will likely use September 1 as an inset day.
“In discussion with schools and unions, the main concerns were about aligning with other, neighbouring local authorities, to support teaching and schools staff.
“Primary and secondary headteacher leads in Barnsley were consulted, together with neighbouring and other local authorities in the region as well as representatives from the NASUWT and NEU.
“The NEU raised concerns about the three days which would make up the last week of the summer term, however other options to mitigate this would mean being out of line with all neighbouring local authorities which would cause significant issues for teaching and school staff.”
