Winter vacation is just around the corner! As you’re probably aware, the University will close for the festive break on Friday 22 December 2025, reopening on Friday 2 January 2026.
So what does this mean for you?
Accommodation with a meal plan
If you live in accommodation with an included meal plan (Keynes College – blocks F, G, H and I – and Becket Court), please note that your accommodation contract does not cover the winter break.
Meal plans will pause from Saturday 13 December 2025 to Saturday 10 January 2026, so you’ll need to move out during this period unless you book separate vacation accommodation.
-
You’ll need to vacate your room by 10am on Saturday 13 December 2025, and you can return from Saturday 10 January 2026.
-
Vacation accommodation is available on a self-catered basis, giving you access to a kitchen to prepare your own meals.
-
If you’d like to stay on campus, you can make your Christmas wish come true – just book your vacation accommodation online at least one week before your move-out date.
-
You won’t be able to stay in or access your usual room during the closure, but you can securely leave belongings locked in your room.
For full details, visit the Vacation Accommodation page.
Self-catered accommodation
If you live in self-catered accommodation, you don’t need to move out over the festive break – you’re welcome to stay! Just keep in mind that campus services will operate differently during the closure.
If you plan to remain on campus, please complete the Staying on Campus form so we can ensure your heating and other facilities continue to run as normal, and if you’re heading off for the holidays (perhaps to somewhere warmer – lucky you!), make sure your accommodation is ready for your return.
What do I need to do before leaving?
Before you head off, look over our checklist to ensure your accommodation is in tip-top condition for your return in the New Year. To get you started:
✅ Pack up your belongings – Take all your important items with you.
✅ Avoid damage when moving out – Take care when removing items from walls or furniture to avoid causing damage – for example, adhesive LED light strips can lift paint. Repair costs for any damage may be charged to your account.
✅ Switch off and unplug – Turn off and unplug all electricals (except the fridge).
✅ Clear out your food – Empty your bin and remove all food from your fridge – no one enjoys dealing with lumpy milk! Non-perishables like tins or dried goods can be donated at the Mandela Building or Kent Union Building (Woody’s) in Park Wood.
Not sure how to clean up before you leave? Check out our handy cleaning videos on YouTube!
👉 Bedroom and washroom cleaning
👉 Cleaning your kitchen and fridge
👉 Waste and recycling
✅ Secure your room – Close all windows (leave the vent open), lock your doors, and collect any post or parcels before you go.
✅ Return your key or fob – If you live in part-catered accommodation, you’ll also need to return your fob to reception to reactivate it for the next term. Make sure you don’t forget this one as it’s important.
Staying in Vacation accommodation?
If you’ve booked vacation accommodation, you can collect your vacation room key from your college reception on Friday 12 December 2025. You’ll have time to move your belongings over — and maybe even hang a few festive decorations!
Remember:
-
All meal plans (including Flex Catering Packages) pause from Saturday 13 December 2025 to Saturday 10 January 2026.
-
Only limited catering outlets will be open during this period.
Welcome back in 2026!
We look forward to seeing you return to Kent in the New Year!
Wishing you a wonderful winter break, wherever and however you choose to spend it!