Christ’s College Canterbury follows a well-structured and balanced academic calendar that promotes both academic excellence and personal growth. The 2025–2026 school year is carefully planned to align with New Zealand’s public holidays, ensuring students have the right mix of learning time, co-curricular opportunities, and well-deserved breaks.
Below is a complete overview of Christ’s College term dates for 2025 and 2026, including start and end dates, public holidays, and other important observances throughout the school year.
Term 1: Monday 2 February – Thursday 2 April (9 weeks)
Staff preparation days: Thursday 29 – Friday 30 January
The 2026 school year begins after staff preparation days with classes commencing on Monday, 2 February.
Waitangi Day falls on Friday, 6 February (Week 1), giving students an extended weekend early in the term.
Term 1 ends on Thursday, 2 April, just before the Easter break from Friday, 3 April to Tuesday, 7 April. The term also coincides with Anzac Day on Saturday, 25 April, which falls during the holiday period.
After Term 1, students enjoy a three-week holiday, marking the transition into Term 2.
Term 2: Tuesday 28 April – Friday 3 July (10 weeks)
Term 2 begins after Anzac Day and Easter on Tuesday, 28 April, running for 10 weeks.
The two main holidays during this term are:
- King’s Birthday – Monday, 1 June (Week 6)
- Matariki – Friday, 10 July (during the holiday period)
This term focuses on mid-year assessments and academic progress checks, helping students prepare for the second half of the year.
A two-week break follows Term 2, offering time for rest and rejuvenation.
Term 3: Monday 20 July – Friday 18 September (9 weeks)
Term 3 begins on Monday, 20 July, and concludes on Friday, 18 September, lasting 9 weeks.
This term is pivotal for senior students as they approach their examination period. Co-curricular programs, sports, and academic extension activities continue to thrive, reinforcing Christ’s College’s holistic educational approach.
After Term 3, students take another three-week holiday before entering the final term of the year.
Term 4: Monday 12 October – Friday 4 December (8 weeks)
The last term of 2026 begins on Monday, 12 October, and ends on Friday, 4 December, lasting 8 weeks.
Key holidays include:
- Labour Day – Monday, 26 October (Week 3)
- Canterbury Show Day – Friday, 13 November (Week 5)
Term 4 is typically filled with final exams, graduation events, and end-of-year festivities before students begin their long summer holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When does the Christ’s College school year start in 2025?
The 2025 academic year begins on Monday, 27 January 2025, following two staff preparation days.
Q2: How many terms are there in a Christ’s College school year?
There are four terms each year, with breaks ranging from two to three weeks between them.
Q3: When are the major public holidays observed at Christ’s College?
Major holidays include Waitangi Day, Easter, Anzac Day, King’s Birthday, Matariki, Labour Day, and Canterbury Show Day.
Q4: When does the 2026 school year end?
The 2026 academic year ends on Friday, 4 December, marking the start of the summer holidays.
Q5: How long is the longest school holiday?
The summer holiday between December and late January is the longest, providing ample time for rest and family activities.
Final Note
Christ’s College 2025–2026 term dates ensure a balanced and enriching educational experience. With clearly defined breaks and alignment with national holidays, students, parents, and staff can plan the year effectively, promoting both academic success and personal well-being.