Australia’s school year is divided into four terms, with breaks in between to help students and teachers rest and reset. These school terms apply to both public and most private schools, although exact dates can vary by state or territory, and sometimes between individual schools.
School Term Structure
Term 1: Starts in late January or early February and ends in early April
Term 2: Runs from late April to late June
Term 3: Starts in mid-July and finishes in late September
Term 4: Runs from early to mid-October until mid-December
Each term typically lasts around 10 weeks, followed by a 2-week break, except for the end of the year, which includes a longer summer holiday of about 6 weeks, however this can vary between state, territory and individual schools.
Why Do Year 10, 11, and 12 Students Finish Earlier in Term 4?
In Australia, students in Years 10, 11, and 12 often finish the school year in term 4 earlier than younger students. This early finish is mainly due to assessment and examination schedules and to give the students study leave prior to their exams.
Why Do Teachers Start the Term Earlier Than Students?
In Australia, teachers typically return to school a day or two before students at the start of each term. This time is not part of student learning time but is essential for teacher’s planning and preparation. Schools often have staff development days at the beginning of the term, which are used for training sessions and curriculum updates. These extra days that the teacher’s have before the students return to school also gives them time to finalise lesson plans, organise learning materials and set up the classroom so it is ready for when the students arrive.
Why Do New Students Start Term 1 a Day Earlier?
In many Australian schools, new students, such as those starting Kindergarten/Prep and Year 7, begin a day earlier than returning students in Term 1. This early start is intentional and beneficial for both students and staff. The first day for new students is often an orientation day for the students, so they can meet their teachers, have a tour around the school and find their classrooms and lockers in a quieter environment.
Why Do Eastern and Western Divisions in NSW Start Term 1 at Different Times?
In New South Wales, public schools are divided into Eastern and Western Divisions, and they don’t always start Term 1 on the same day. This difference comes down to geography, climate, and travel considerations. The difference is usually one week, with Western Division schools returning a little later in Term 1, but still aligning with the overall term schedule by the end of the year.