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Term

One of the three main parts of the school year in the UK: autumn, spring and summer, each usually split by a half-term holiday.

Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ)
Topic
School calendar

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Half term England Wales Northern Ireland
A short holiday, usually a week, in the middle of each term; also refers to the six or so weeks between holidays.
Semester United States International
One of two main halves of the school or college year.
Trimester United States
One of three parts of a school year used by some schools for grading.

More terms: School calendar

Academic year · Bank holiday · Snow day · Study leave · Summer school

More terms starting with T · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.