If you’re planning to relocate to Victoria or just planning around the school year, knowing the official school holiday dates is crucial. Whether for vacations or managing work-life balance, understanding Victoria’s school term schedule can help you plan ahead. Here’s a breakdown of the school holiday calendar for 2024.
Victoria School Term Dates for 2024
In Victoria, the school year is divided into four terms. Each term has a specific duration followed by a school holiday. Below are the official term dates for 2024:
| Term | Start Date | End Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | 29 January 2024 | 28 March 2024 | 9 weeks |
| Holiday | 29 March 2024 | 14 April 2024 | 2 weeks (Autumn) |
| Term 2 | 15 April 2024 | 28 June 2024 | 11 weeks |
| Holiday | 29 June 2024 | 14 July 2024 | 2 weeks (Winter) |
| Term 3 | 15 July 2024 | 20 September 2024 | 10 weeks |
| Holiday | 21 September 2024 | 6 October 2024 | 2 weeks (Spring) |
| Term 4 | 7 October 2024 | 20 December 2024 | 11 weeks |
| Holiday | 21 December 2024 | End of January 2025 | Summer break |
Key Public Holidays during School Terms
Victoria celebrates several public holidays that may overlap with school terms, offering long weekends or additional breaks for students and families. Here are the key public holidays in Victoria during the school year in 2024:
| Public Holiday | Date | Relevant School Term |
|---|---|---|
| Labour Day | 11 March 2024 | Term 1 |
| Good Friday | 29 March 2024 | Term 1 (Holiday starts) |
| Easter Monday | 1 April 2024 | Term 1 (Holiday) |
| Anzac Day | 25 April 2024 | Term 2 |
| Queen’s Birthday | 10 June 2024 | Term 2 |
| AFL Grand Final Friday | 27 September 2024 | Term 3 (During holiday) |
| Melbourne Cup Day | 5 November 2024 | Term 4 |
School Holiday Tips for Families Relocating to Victoria
If you’re new to Victoria or planning a relocation, here are some tips to make the most of the school holidays:
- Plan Early: School holidays are peak times for family trips and activities. Book travel and accommodations early, especially for popular tourist spots like the Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island, or Mornington Peninsula.
- Holiday Programs: Many local councils and schools offer holiday programs for children during the break. These include sports camps, arts and crafts workshops, and adventure activities. Research options in your local area.
- Explore Local Attractions: Victoria has plenty of child-friendly attractions such as Melbourne Zoo, Scienceworks, and Royal Botanic Gardens. The school holidays are a perfect opportunity to explore the state’s vibrant culture.
Relocation Insights: How School Holidays Impact Moving Plans
When relocating to Victoria, it’s essential to consider how school holidays might affect your timeline:
- Best Time to Move: School holidays, especially the long summer break, can be an ideal time to finalize relocation plans. Children won’t miss school, and the weather is typically more favorable for moving.
- Settling In: Use the holiday periods to settle your children into their new home and community. It’s a great time to explore local parks, community centers, and libraries, helping kids adjust to their new environment.
Recommended Vacation Spots in Victoria during School Holidays
Victoria offers a range of destinations perfect for family holidays during the school breaks. Here are some of the top spots to consider:
Autumn Break (March – April):
- Phillip Island: Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, this island is famous for its wildlife, including the Penguin Parade, and stunning coastal scenery.
- Grampians National Park: A great destination for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring Aboriginal rock art.
Winter Break (June – July):
- Mt Buller: A perfect spot for snow enthusiasts. Families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or simply playing in the snow.
- The Yarra Valley: Cozy up by the fireplace in one of the region’s charming cottages and explore the local wildlife parks, such as Healesville Sanctuary.
Spring Break (September – October):
- Great Ocean Road: One of the most iconic road trips in Australia, with plenty of stops including the Twelve Apostles, waterfalls, and charming coastal towns.
- Mornington Peninsula: Enjoy beaches, hot springs, and beautiful hiking trails.
Summer Break (December – January):
- Wilson’s Promontory: A national park known for its stunning beaches, wildlife, and outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and swimming.
- Torquay and the Surf Coast: Ideal for beach lovers, this area offers great surf spots and family-friendly beaches.
School Enrollment Tips for Families Moving to Victoria
If you’re relocating to Victoria during the school year or planning to move during the holiday periods, here are some helpful tips for enrolling your child in school:
- Plan Ahead: Victoria’s schools can be competitive, especially in popular areas. Start researching schools and their zoning policies as early as possible. Public schools generally give preference to students living in their catchment zone.
- Visit Schools during Term Time: If possible, arrange a visit to potential schools during the term. This will give you an idea of the school’s environment, facilities, and culture. Schools often have open days or tours for new families.
- Enrolment Deadlines: Each school will have its own deadlines for enrolment, so ensure you check these and submit the required paperwork on time. International or interstate relocations may require additional documents, such as transfer certificates and proof of residency.
- Temporary Enrollment: If your move is mid-term, some schools may offer temporary enrollment while your permanent residence is finalized. Contact the school administration to discuss these options.
- Holiday Programs for Kids: While you wait for the school year to start, take advantage of the many holiday programs available across Victoria. These programs offer great social and educational opportunities for children to adjust to their new environment and make friends.
