Birmingham Schools Announce Closures for Eid al-Fitr Celebrations This Week
A significant number of schools across Birmingham have confirmed they will be closing on specific days this week to allow students and staff to observe Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This religious celebration, which translates to the 'festival of breaking the fast', is a time for community gatherings and prayer.
Predicted Dates and Moon Sightings
The exact dates for Eid al-Fitr are determined by the sighting of the new moon in various countries. For 2026, predictions indicate that Eid will likely fall on Friday, March 20 or Saturday, March 21. Typically, Saudi Arabia declares the festival first, often on March 20, with other nations, including the UK, following a day later on March 21. However, some UK institutions, such as Green Lane Mosque in Small Heath, align their observances with Saudi Arabia's announcement.
Confirmed School Closures in Birmingham
Several schools have already released their closure schedules. The following institutions will be shut on both Thursday, March 19 and Friday, March 20, 2026:
- Al-Furqan Primary School located on Reddings Lane in Tyseley.
- The Olive School, also situated on Reddings Lane in Tyseley.
- Starbank School on Hob Moor Road in Bordesley Green.
- Eden Boys School on Wellhead Lane in Perry Barr.
- Eden Girls School on Hob Moor Road in Bordesley Green.
Additionally, the following schools will close specifically on Friday, March 20:
- Heartlands Academy on Great Francis Street in Nechells.
- Bordesley Green Girls School and Sixth Form – with Friday, March 20 to be confirmed.
Flexible Arrangements and Adjustments
Some schools are implementing flexible policies to accommodate the religious observance. For instance, Hodge Hill College allows families to request one day of leave for religious purposes, with the specific date varying based on which moon sighting families follow.
In contrast, King's Norton School for Boys has announced it will remain open throughout the week. However, due to a high number of staff taking leave to mark Eid, the school has made temporary adjustments. Year 9 pupils will not attend on Friday, March 20, while Year 11 students will have a shortened day, ending at 1:10 PM. Years 7, 8, and 10 will follow a normal schedule, albeit with a modified timetable to manage staffing constraints.
The school communicated to parents that they will reorganize classes and collapse some groups to ensure operations continue smoothly despite reduced staff availability. This highlights the balancing act educational institutions face in respecting religious practices while maintaining academic continuity.
These closures reflect Birmingham's diverse community and the importance of accommodating cultural and religious events within the school calendar. Parents and guardians are advised to check with individual schools for any updates or specific arrangements regarding Eid al-Fitr observances.
