Why the school year in Spain starts in September and not in another month: child labor in the fields and the hygiene theories of the 19th century shaped the calendar

The academic year in Spain traditionally commences in September, a schedule rooted in 19th-century agricultural labor requirements and historical hygiene theories. This calendar structure persists today, marking a transition from the summer break to the start of the formal educational period for students and families across the country.

As the 2026-2027 school year approaches, most Spanish regions are preparing for the start of classes. While the national timeline remains consistent, specific start dates vary by autonomous community, with some regions, such as Andalusia, beginning their academic sessions earlier than others.