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Term Dates

In general, Astra trainning follows Buckinghamshire school dates, with some variation when a trainee is in a Hertfordshire or Hillingdon school. Incoming trainees must only book holiday for confirmed school holidays; if in doubt, contact the Astra office.

  • Autumn Term

    • First day of term
      1st Sep 2025
    • Half Term
      27th Oct 2025 - 31st Oct 2025
    • Last day of term
      19th Dec 2025
    • Further Information
      Induction Days (trainees attend ONE of these):
      Wednesday, 18 June at Aylesbury Grammar School
      Friday, 27 June at Dr Challoner's Grammar School
      Monday, 7 July at Dr Challoner's Grammar School
      Friday, 25 July at Dr Challoner's Grammar School


      Please note: some schools have a longer half term, but trainees in this category are required to attend Astra training on Wednesday, 22 October and will be undertaking a placement in primary schools on other days at this point. This will be explained at Induction in June and July. All trainees have one week of half term to comply with training requirements.

      The final Professional Studies training session will be on Wednesday, 17 December. Most schools continue until 19 December. If your school finishes on 17 December, as some secondaries do, 18 and 19 December will be part of the Christmas holiday..
  • Spring Term

    • First day of term
      5th Jan 2026
    • Half Term
      16th Feb 2026 - 20th Feb 2026
    • Last day of term
      27th Mar 2026
    • Further Information
      A small number of schools have slightly different Easter holidays. Check your placement school's website. You are always required to attend Astra training sessions, even if they fall during your placement school's holidays.
  • Summer Term

    • First day of term
      13th Apr 2026
    • Half Term
      25th May 2026 - 29th May 2026
    • Last day of term
      3rd Jul 2026
    • Further Information
      Certification Evening: Monday 6 July - a formal celebration to mark the end of the course, including the presentation of Qualified Teacher Status to all successful Astra Partnership Trainees