The Ghana Education Service (GES) has officially announced the 2025/2026 academic calendar for Form 1 students in double track (transitional) Senior High Schools. This calendar outlines everything from reporting dates and academic terms to vacation periods and learning modes, ensuring that students, parents, and school authorities can plan effectively for the academic year.
This detailed breakdown focuses specifically on SHS 1 students under the transitional/double track system, helping you understand the structure and schedule for the entire school year.
Who Is This Calendar For?
This calendar applies to:
- Form 1 (SHS 1) students placed in double track Senior High Schools.
- Schools still running the transitional academic calendar model.
Academic Structure for SHS 1 (Double Track) – 2025/2026
The Form 1 calendar is divided into three academic terms – each combining onsite and offsite (blended/remote) learning to maximize classroom use while ensuring full academic contact time.
First Semester (Term 1)
- Reopening/Reporting Date:
Saturday, 18th October – Monday, 20th October 2025 - In-School Period:
18th October 2025 – 30th January 2026
Duration: 13 weeks
This includes:- 9 weeks of in-person learning
- 4 weeks of offsite/blended learning
- Break/Vacation:
31st January – 15th March 2026
Second Semester (Term 2)
- Reopening Date:
Monday, 16th March 2026 - In-School Period:
16th March – 12th June 2026
Duration: 13 weeks
Includes:- 9 weeks of in-person learning
- 4 weeks of offsite/blended learning
- Break/Vacation:
13th June – 2nd July 2026
Third Semester (Term 3)
- Reopening Date:
Thursday, 3rd July 2026 - In-School Period:
3rd July – 4th September 2026
Duration: 9 weeks
This term is fully onsite (in-person) - End of Academic Year:
Friday, 4th September 2026
Summary Table – SHS 1 Transitional Academic Calendar
| Term | In-School Dates | Weeks | Learning Mode | Breaks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | 18th Oct 2025 – 30th Jan 2026 | 13 weeks | 9 onsite + 4 offsite | 31st Jan – 15th Mar 2026 |
| Term 2 | 16th Mar – 12th Jun 2026 | 13 weeks | 9 onsite + 4 offsite | 13th Jun – 2nd Jul 2026 |
| Term 3 | 3rd Jul – 4th Sept 2026 | 9 weeks | Fully onsite | Academic year ends 4th Sept |
GES Key Dates & Notes
- Official Reporting Window for SHS 1:
18th – 20th October 2025 - Easter Break (falls during Term 2):
1st – 8th April 2026 - Christmas Break (optional, depending on school):
20th Dec 2025 – 4th Jan 2026 (Note: May fall during blended/offsite weeks) - Proposed Start of Next Academic Year (2026/2027):
11th September 2026
Important Notes for Parents & Students
- Blended learning periods are not holidays. Students will receive assignments, materials, and possible virtual instruction to continue learning while off campus.
- Attendance and engagement during both in-school and offsite periods are critical for academic success.
- Form 1 students receive a full 35 weeks of academic contact, aligning with national education standards despite the double track format.
- The calendar allows schools to efficiently manage resources while ensuring every student completes the curriculum.
Conclusion
The 2025/2026 academic year for Form 1 students in double track SHS is well-structured to balance face-to-face teaching and offsite learning. With a total of three terms and 35 academic weeks, students have ample time to settle into senior high school, learn, and grow.
Tip for Students: Start strong, stay consistent, and use the offsite weeks productively. This is the foundation of your SHS journey!
Stay informed. Stay prepared. Education starts with showing up — both in person and online.
Source: GESHub.org
