School Holidays Calendar in Cambodia: A Complete Guide for Parents and Travelers

School holidays in Cambodia follow a unique calendar that reflects the country’s cultural heritage and climate patterns. Understanding these holiday periods is essential for both local families and visitors planning trips to this Southeast Asian nation.

Table of contents:

• Public School Calendar in Cambodia
• Cambodian School Year Calendar
• Major School Holiday Periods
• Impact on Education and Tourism
• Planning Around School Holidays
• Regional and International School Variations
• Educational Considerations

Public School Calendar in Cambodia

The Cambodian academic year typically runs from November to August, differing significantly from Western educational calendars. School holidays in Cambodia are strategically planned around major cultural festivals and the country’s distinct seasonal changes. The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) oversees the scheduling of these breaks to ensure they align with important national celebrations and optimal learning periods.

Cambodian School Year Calendar

Major School Holiday Periods

Khmer New Year Break

One of the most significant school holidays in Cambodia occurs during Khmer New Year in April. This three-day celebration typically extends into a longer break for students, allowing families to participate in traditional ceremonies and return to their home provinces.

Water Festival Holiday

The Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November marks another crucial school holiday in Cambodia. This three-day celebration commemorates the reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s flow, a unique natural phenomenon. Schools close to allow students and their families to participate in boat races, fireworks displays, and other cultural activities.

Summer Break

The longest school holiday in Cambodia typically span from late June to September. This extended break coincides with the peak of Cambodia’s hot and rainy season, when classroom learning can be challenging due to weather conditions. Many schools use this time for facility maintenance and teacher training programs. Additionally, this break allows time for students to help their families with farming and other seasonal activities.

• Starts: Late June (after the end of Term 2 exams)
• Ends: Early November (before the start of the new academic year)

Duration: Approximately 4 months (from late June to early November).

Impact on Education and Tourism

School holidays in Cambodia significantly influence both the education sector and tourism industry. During major breaks, popular destinations like Angkor Wat, Sihanoukville, and Phnom Penh experience increased domestic tourism as families take advantage of free time to explore their country.

Planning Around School Holidays

For families and educators in Cambodia, understanding the holiday schedule is crucial for:

• Planning family vacations
• Organizing supplementary education programs
• Arranging childcare during extended breaks
• Coordinating with work schedules
• Managing educational progress

Regional and International School Variations

While the national education system sets standard school holidays in Cambodia, some variations exist between:

• Public and private schools
• Urban and rural institutions
• International schools following different calendars
• Provincial education departments

Educational Considerations

During school holidays in Cambodia, many students tend to participate in:

• Extra-curricular activities
• Language classes
• Cultural workshops
• Sports programs
• Family businesses

Conclusion

School holidays in Cambodia represent more than just breaks from education; they are integral to the country’s cultural fabric and educational system. Understanding these holiday periods helps families, educators, and visitors plan effectively while appreciating their significance in Cambodian society. Whether managing a student’s academic schedule or planning a visit to Cambodia, considering these holiday periods is essential for a well-coordinated experience.