The school calendar in Spain is a fundamental tool for organizing the academic year for students, teachers and parents alike. This calendar not only marks the beginning and end of classes, but also includes holidays, vacations and various school activities that are essential for the educational and personal development of students.
Beginning of the School Year
The school year in Spain generally begins in September, although the exact date may vary depending on the autonomous community. For early childhood and primary education, classes usually start during the first or second week of September. In secondary and high school, the start of the course can be delayed a few more days, usually starting in mid-September. This difference in start dates allows students to gradually adapt to the school routine after the summer holidays.
National Holidays
Throughout the academic year, there are several national holidays that affect the school calendar. Some of the most notable are:
October 12: National Holiday of Spain, commemorating the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.
November 1: All Saints' Day, a day to remember the deceased.
December 6: Spanish Constitution Day, celebrating the approval of the Constitution in 1978.
December 8: Immaculate Conception Day, a deeply rooted religious holiday in the country.
1 of January New Year.
January 6: Three Kings' Day, marking the end of the Christmas festivities.
These holidays provide students with a break in the middle of the course and the opportunity to participate in celebrations and cultural traditions.
School holidays
School holidays are one of the most anticipated aspects of the academic calendar. In Spain, the main holidays are:
Christmas holidays
The Christmas holidays usually begin around December 22 and extend until after Three Kings' Day, January 6. This period allows students to enjoy the Christmas festivities and recharge their batteries for the second quarter of the course.
Easter holidays
Easter is another important time of rest in the school calendar. The Holy Week holidays generally last one week, coinciding with the religious celebration of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus. These dates vary each year, since they depend on the liturgical calendar, but they usually fall between the end of March and April.
Summer Vacation
The end of the school year in Spain occurs in June, beginning the long summer holidays that last approximately three months. During this time, students have the opportunity to rest, travel, participate in summer camps, and prepare for the next academic year.
Evaluations and Exams
The school calendar is also marked by periods of assessments and exams that are crucial for students' academic performance. Throughout the course, several evaluations are carried out including:
Quarterly Exams
At the end of each term, students face exams that evaluate the knowledge acquired during that period. These exams are essential for monitoring academic progress and usually have a significant weight in the final course grade.
Final evaluation
At the end of the course, in June, the final evaluation is carried out. This evaluation can include both final exams and the presentation of projects and works. The results of these evaluations are decisive for course promotion and, in the case of high school students, for admission to university.
University Access Tests (EBAU)
For students who finish high school and want to enter university, the Baccalaureate Assessment for University Access (EBAU) tests, formerly known as Selectivity, are a crucial appointment. These tests are carried out in June and, in some cases, there is a second call in September. The grades obtained at the EBAU are essential for admission to the different university courses.
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are an essential part of the comprehensive development of students. Throughout the course, various activities are organized that complement academic training and promote social, sports and cultural skills. Some of the most notable extracurricular activities are:
Excursions and School Trips
Field trips and field trips are an excellent opportunity for students to learn outside of the classroom. These trips may include visits to museums, natural parks, companies, scientific and cultural institutions, among others. In addition, end-of-year trips, especially in middle and high school, are highly anticipated events for students, since they combine learning and fun.
Cultural and Sports Days
Many schools organize cultural and sports days throughout the year. These days may include sports competitions, art, music and theater workshops, as well as activities related to science and technology. These initiatives encourage teamwork, creativity and interest in various disciplines.
Celebrations and Special Events
The school calendar also includes celebrations and special events that vary by school and autonomous community. Some of these events may be:
Peace Day: Celebrated on January 30, commemorating the death of Mahatma Gandhi. It is a day to promote values of peace and non-violence.
Carnival: Many schools celebrate Carnival with parades and recreational activities where students dress up and participate in games and contests.
Book Day: On April 23, coinciding with the anniversary of the death of Miguel de Cervantes, activities are carried out to promote reading and the love of books.
Educational Projects and Programs
In addition to extracurricular activities, the school calendar includes the implementation of various educational projects and programs that enrich the training of students. Some of the most relevant are:
Educational Innovation Projects
Many schools participate in educational innovation projects that seek to introduce new methodologies and technologies in the classroom. These projects may include the use of digital devices, project-based learning, and gamification techniques, among others. The goal is to improve students' motivation and academic performance.
Environmental Education Programs
Environmental education programs are essential to raise awareness among students about the importance of caring for the environment. Through practical activities such as creating school gardens, participating in recycling campaigns and going on outings to the natural environment, students learn to value and protect the planet.
Equality and Diversity Programs
The promotion of equality and respect for diversity is a priority in the Spanish educational system. Throughout the course, programs and activities are developed that address topics such as gender equality, the inclusion of people with disabilities and respect for cultural and ethnic differences. These programs seek to build a more just and equitable society.
The diversity of activities and the inclusion of innovative projects in the school calendar reflect the commitment of the Spanish educational system to the comprehensive training of students. Thus, the aim is not only to transmit academic knowledge, but also to promote values, social skills and competencies that will be fundamental in their adult life.