Half-term is nearly here. Our October break runs from Monday 19 to Friday 30 October, with School returning on Monday 2 November. Two weeks is a good stretch of time: long enough to rest properly, and long enough to do a few of the things you never quite manage during term. Here are some ideas to help make it count, without turning it into a project.
Rest comes first
The first half of the autumn term is busy, with new routines, new teachers, fixtures, clubs and, for some, a whole new school. Let the first few days be slow. Lie-ins, unplanned afternoons and time with family are not wasted time; they are how children recharge. A tired child rarely gets much out of a packed itinerary.
Get outside
Autumn is one of the best times of year to be outdoors around Surbiton and Kingston. A walk along the Thames Path, a morning spotting deer in Richmond Park or Bushy Park, or a bike ride with a picnic costs little and gives children a proper change of scene. Pack wellies and waterproofs and treat the weather as part of the adventure.
Try something new
With over 150 co-curricular opportunities on offer during term, many pupils have already discovered a new interest this year. Half-term is a lovely chance to explore it further, or to try something completely different: baking a family recipe, learning a card game, building something or visiting a museum or gallery. October is also Black History Month, and many museums, libraries and galleries run special exhibitions and family events.
Keep reading
Reading for pleasure is one of the most valuable habits a child can build, and holidays are the perfect time to nurture it. Let them choose; comics, graphic novels and audiobooks all count. Younger children love being read to, and older ones often enjoy talking about what they are reading if you ask out of interest rather than as a test.
A little, not a lot, for older pupils
For older pupils, a small amount of structured work can take the pressure off later in the year. Twenty or thirty minutes a day is usually more effective than one long session squeezed in at the end, and much easier to stick to. Agree a plan together, then protect the rest of the day for rest and fun.
Ease back into routine
In the last few days of the break, start moving bedtimes back towards term time, sort out uniform and kit, and check bags are packed. A calm Sunday evening on 1 November makes for a much smoother first morning back.
Thinking about joining us?
If you are considering Surbiton High for your child, half-term is a good time to get applications in order. Key registration deadlines for September 2027 entry, including 7+ entry to both Prep Schools and 11+ entry to the Senior School, fall on Monday 2 November 2026. Visit our admissions pages for full details, or contact our admissions and reception teams at admissions@surbitonhigh.com.
Wishing all our families a happy and restful break.
