Studying at university is intensive, with a rapid succession of busy teaching and exam periods and limited opportunities to catch your breath. The period between the end of one academic year and the start of the next is particularly tight, with hardly any time for students to turn the page on the previous academic year or to reorient themselves. For administrative and educational support staff, lecturers and assistants, too, peak periods merge seamlessly at a time when the academic year has yet to really get started. How can we bring more breathing space into the academic year, thereby improving the studyability and teachability of our programmes and keeping the pressure on the organisation manageable? The academic calendar is a topic that requires careful consideration, without preconceptions, and with all stakeholders involved – students, lecturers, teaching support staff, student counsellors and administrative support staff. Only with this approach can we arrive at a shared vision that makes a real difference for all of us.