Starting at a new school is an exciting milestone, and we are delighted to welcome you to Ratcliffe College. This page has been designed to support new starters and their families as you prepare for the beginning of term.
Welcome to Ratcliffe College
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Here you will find key dates, essential information, and helpful resources to guide you through the months ahead, from now through to September. From uniform guidance and term dates to the Live School Calendar, everything you need is in one place.
In the coming weeks, we will share further details to support your child’s transition. All information will be sent via email, and we encourage you to check back regularly for updates and to explore the resources available.
We look forward to welcoming you to Ratcliffe.
Prep School Parents' Handbook - Reception to Year 6
Nursery Parents' Handbook - Cygnets and Swans
Key Information and Documents
Co-Curricular Clubs: Please note you will be able to sign your child(ren) up for next terms' Co-Curricular Clubs, via SOCS from w/c 31st August 2026 (further details to follow).
A link to SOCS will be sent via email during w/c 31st August 2026; details of the term’s activities are listed in the online Calendar and also published at the start of the term, on the Parent Information page here.
You will receive an email with details to enrol to the College's Parent Portal during w/c 31st August 2026.
Additional information and details about the key dates below will be sent to you via email.
- Monday 15 June 2026, 6.30pm - 8pm: Information Evening for Parents of children new to the Nursery and Preparatory School (Newman Hall, Prep School)
Children joining Years 1 to 6 are welcome to attend. We understand that childcare can be challenging; however, we recommend that parents of Reception children attend without their child where possible.
Transition Mornings for new students:
- Thursday 25 June 2026: Reception
- Thursday 18 June and Thursday 25 June 2026: Year 1
- Tuesday 30 June 2026: Year 2 - Year 6
- Monday 7 September 2026 - First day back for all students / Start of Term.
Autumn Term 2026
| Friday 4th September | New Senior School Students Induction Day |
| Sunday 6th September | Existing Boarders return |
| Monday 7th September | Autumn term begins for all students |
| Monday 19th October to Friday 30th October | Half-Term |
| Sunday 1st November | Boarders return |
| Monday 2nd November | Classes begin |
| Friday 11th December | Autumn term ends (after classes) |
| Monday 14th December to Friday 1st January | Christmas Holiday |
Spring Term 2027
| Sunday 3rd January | Boarders return |
| Monday 4th January | Spring Term begins |
| Monday 15th February to Friday 19th February | Half-Term |
| Sunday 21st February | Boarders return |
| Monday 22nd February | Classes begin |
| Friday 19th March | Spring Term ends (after classes) |
| Monday 22nd March to Friday 9th April | Easter Holiday |
Summer Term 2027
| Sunday 11th April | Boarders return |
| Monday 12th April | Summer Term begins |
| Monday 3rd May | Bank Holiday |
| Monday 31st May to Friday 4th June | Half-Term |
| Sunday 6th June | Boarders return |
| Monday 7th June | Classes begin |
| Friday 9th July | Summer Term ends (after classes) |
The Ratcliffe College Live School Calendar is published at the end of each term for the upcoming term and is accessible via the school website (Main Menu > About Us > School Calendar). It provides a real-time overview of parent events, fixtures, and activities taking place across the College.
Parents can use the filters and date tools to easily explore and find relevant events throughout the term.
The Autumn Term 2026 calendar will be available on the webpage from late August 2026.
Our 2026 Summer Holiday Camp runs from Monday 13 July to Friday 7 August, offering Ratcliffe students (current and new) aged 5 - 14 a fun-filled programme of multi-activities, creative projects, sports, and outdoor experiences.
Find out more and reserve your child's place below.
- Katie Newman (Admissions Manager) – 01509 817072 / [email protected]
- Helen Brady (Admissions Assistant) – 01509 817031 / [email protected]
- Sue Davison (School Transport) – 01509 817068 / [email protected]
