If you’re a parent or student at Dr Challoner’s Grammar School, it’s time to start planning for the next academic year. The term dates for 2025-26 have been set, giving you a clear idea of when school starts, when breaks fall, and when to enjoy holidays.
Having these dates handy can make life easier — whether you’re organizing study schedules, family trips, or simply managing day-to-day school routines. Let’s go through the full Dr Challoner’s Grammar School term calendar for 2025 and 2026, along with useful tips for students and families.
Dr Challoner’s Grammar School Term Dates 2025–26 (Overview)
| Term | Opens On (Morning) | Closes On (Afternoon) |
|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | Thursday 4 September 2025 | Friday 17 October 2025 |
| Term 2 | Monday 3 November 2025 | Friday 19 December 2025 (12.35pm) |
| Term 3 | Tuesday 6 January 2026 | Friday 13 February 2026 |
| Term 4 | Monday 23 February 2026 | Friday 27 March 2026 (12.35pm) |
| Term 5 | Tuesday 14 April 2026 | Friday 22 May 2026 |
| Term 6 | Monday 1 June 2026 | Friday 17 July 2026 (12.35pm) |
These dates are based on the standard Buckinghamshire school pattern but tailored for Dr Challoner’s Grammar School. They offer a good rhythm between study time and well-earned rest.
Autumn Term 2025: A Fresh Start
The new school year kicks off on Thursday, 4 September 2025. This first half term sets the tone for the academic year — new classes, new goals, and new opportunities.
Students will focus on settling into routines, getting to know their teachers, and preparing for early assessments. After six productive weeks, the first half-term break begins on Friday, 17 October 2025.
Classes resume on Monday, 3 November, continuing until Friday, 19 December 2025. The end of term finishes a little earlier than usual at 12.35pm, marking the start of the festive Christmas holidays.
Blog Tip: Autumn is a great time to set academic goals and get organized. Encourage students to start early with reading lists and revision habits.
Spring Term 2026: Mid-Year Progress
After the New Year celebrations, students return on Tuesday, 6 January 2026. The first few weeks are typically filled with revision and mock exams — an important checkpoint in the academic year.
The Spring half-term runs from Monday, 16 February to Friday, 20 February 2026, providing a short break before the second half of the term begins.
Classes continue from Monday, 23 February until Friday, 27 March 2026, when the school closes at 12.35pm for the Easter holidays.
Blog Tip: This term can be intense for exam-year students. Use February’s half-term for light revision and relaxation — not cramming.
Summer Term 2026: The Final Stretch
The Summer Term begins on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, after the Easter holidays. This is a crucial period for students sitting GCSEs or A-levels, as final exams and coursework deadlines take center stage.
A half-term holiday follows from Monday, 25 May to Friday, 29 May 2026.
After returning in early June, students complete their final academic weeks before the school year wraps up on Friday, 17 July 2026 (12.35pm).
Blog Tip: Encourage students to celebrate their achievements, whether through summer programs, volunteering, or rest — balance is key before the next school year begins.
At a Glance – Key Holiday Breaks 2025-26
- Autumn Half-Term: 20–31 October 2025
- Christmas Holidays: 20 December 2025 – 5 January 2026
- Spring Half-Term: 16–20 February 2026
- Easter Holidays: 28 March – 13 April 2026
- Summer Half-Term: 25–29 May 2026
- Summer Holidays: Begin 18 July 2026
Useful Planning Advice
- Add term dates to your calendar early — It’s the easiest way to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Book family trips in school holidays only — Schools rarely authorise term-time absences.
- Stay connected with the school — Newsletters and portals often update any changes to term times or events.
- Encourage consistency — Students perform best with a regular study and rest routine.
- Use breaks for growth — Half-terms are perfect for sports, hobbies, and light academic refreshers.
FAQs – Dr Challoner’s Grammar School Term Dates 2025-26
Q1. When does the new academic year 2025–26 start at Dr Challoner’s Grammar School?
The school year starts on Thursday, 4 September 2025, for all students.
Q2. When does school close for Christmas 2025?
The Autumn term ends on Friday, 19 December 2025, with an early finish at 12.35pm.
Q3. When is the February half-term break in 2026?
The half-term holiday runs from Monday, 16 February to Friday, 20 February 2026.
Q4. When does the Summer Term 2026 end?
The final school day is Friday, 17 July 2026, finishing at 12.35pm before the long summer break.
Q5. Will these term dates change?
While these are the confirmed term dates for 2025-26, parents should always check the school website closer to each term for updates or teacher training days.
Final Thoughts
The Dr Challoner’s Grammar School term dates 2025-26 offer a balanced academic calendar that helps students stay focused while enjoying regular breaks. With six structured terms spread across three seasons, the year provides time for learning, growth, and well-deserved rest.
Planning ahead using these dates can make a real difference — not only for academic performance but also for overall well-being. Whether you’re preparing for exams or just starting your grammar school journey, this guide helps you stay one step ahead throughout the 2025–2026 school year.