Introduction
Once your child is enrolled in a UK boarding school, one of the next things to understand is how the academic calendar works. UK schools follow a unique term structure that may differ from what families are used to especially those coming from the US, Asia, or the Middle East.
In this guide, we’ll explain what each school break means, how often they happen, and what to consider when planning flights, guardianship, and accommodation during holidays.
The UK School Year at a Glance
Most UK boarding schools follow a three-term academic year, typically structured as:
• Autumn Term (Michaelmas): September – December
• Spring Term (Lent): January – March/April
• Summer Term: April – July
Each term includes:
• A half-term break (usually 1 week off around the midpoint)
• Some schools also schedule exeat weekends short, compulsory leave weekends where students leave campus
• A major holiday at the end of each term (Christmas, Easter, Summer)
Tip: Term dates are set by each school, so always check their official calendar and match travel accordingly.
What Are Exeats and Half-Terms?
These shorter breaks are often where confusion sets in. Here’s what they mean:
Exeat weekends:
• Typically occur once or twice per term
• Students must leave school either with a guardian, family, or host
• Usually last Friday to Sunday, or Saturday to Sunday
• Not all schools offer exeats, but many traditional boarding schools do
Half-term breaks:
• Last about a week
• Most international students return home, stay with guardians, or join organised trips or camps
• Schools close entirely during this time, so accommodation must be arranged
Planning for these early ensures your child isn’t left without options and helps avoid inflated last-minute travel costs.
Where Do Students Go During Breaks?
Depending on their age and home location, students typically:
• Fly home (especially for Christmas and summer holidays)
• Stay with their UK-based guardian during half-term and exeats
• Join school-approved holiday camps or travel groups
• Spend time with local friends’ families (with permission)
Older students sometimes remain in the UK for study or training if permitted and arranged with the school.
Travel Planning Tips for Families
• Book flights early airports are busiest during school holidays
• Coordinate with the school to ensure flights don’t clash with exams or compulsory events
• Leave buffer time in case of delays or illness
• Avoid booking return flights during the last weekend of term, as many schools have end-of-term events and strict departure policies
Some schools provide airport transfers or group travel services especially on major travel days. Always ask what’s available.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the rhythm of the UK school year helps families stay one step ahead when it comes to travel, guardianship, and wellbeing. With good planning, school breaks become a time to rest, reconnect, and regroup.
At Prestige Football Schools, we support families in building smooth routines around term dates, holidays, and international travel. Whether it’s finding the right guardian or syncing flights with term end, we’re here to help.
