Understanding Part Time or Reduced School Timetables

All children of compulsory school age have the right to a full‑time education. In most cases, children should attend school for the standard number of hours for their age group.

A part‑time timetable is a temporary arrangement where a child attends school for fewer hours than usual. This should only be used in exceptional circumstances and always in the child’s best interests.

Typical School Week

There is no nationally set minimum number of hours, but these figures reflect typical expectations in most schools.  These are the expected weekly hours for full‑time education:

Key Stage	Year Groups	Hours per Week
Foundation Stage	Reception	21
Key Stage 1	Years 1-2	21
Key Stage 2	Years 3-6	23.5
Key Stage 3	Years 7-9	24
Key Stage 4	Years 10-11	25

When Can a Part‑Time Timetable Be Used?

A reduced timetable can only be used when it supports a child’s needs and is part of a planned approach. Examples include:

Medical reasons

If a child has a serious physical or mental health condition and recovery is the priority. Any plan should involve health professionals and may include reasonable adjustments.

A reintegration plan

For children returning after:

• a long absence
• exclusion
• school refusal/anxiety – replace with Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA)

or being new to the school. A phased return may help them adjust gradually.

A Wider Support Plan

Where a multi‑agency support package is already in place (e.g., SEN support, social care involvement, Virtual School, health) or  a child has Special Educational Needs or a disability a part‑time timetable must NOT be used to manage behaviour. This could be discriminatory and unlawful.

A reduced timetable can be linked to SEN needs, but must not be used simply because a child has SEND or as a substitute for provision

What Should the School Do? (The Process)

If a part‑time timetable is being considered, the school must:

1. Meet with parents/carers to agree the plan.

2. Work with all professionals involved. This may include:

• SENCO / EHCP Coordinator
• Health professionals
• Social worker
• Virtual School

3. Create a clear, time‑limited plan. The plan must include:

• why a reduced timetable is needed
• strategies to support success
• a reintegration plan with clear steps
• an end date (typically no longer than 6 weeks, unless there is clear medical evidence and agreement from professionals

4. Review regularly

Parents/carers and the child should be involved in reviews. Schools should keep a communication log.

5. Complete a risk assessment

This ensures the school has considered safeguarding and wellbeing impacts.

6. Mark attendance correctly

Schools must use the appropriate codes (usually X or C2). Schools must record attendance using the correct codes in line with DfE guidance.

Children with an EHCP

• If a child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) the school must still provide the support outlined in the plan.
• The EHCP Coordinator must also be informed in writing and given a copy of the timetable. 
• If part‑time timetables are used repeatedly, this should be discussed at the annual review, including how to avoid future use.

Safeguarding

Schools remain responsible for safeguarding and welfare during all times the child would normally be in school.

Schools must inform:

• the social worker (if the child has one)
• the Virtual School (if the child is looked after)

What Happens After 6 Weeks?

At the end of the agreed period, the school must hold a reintegration meeting to review:

Have the objectives been met?

Yes → child returns to full‑time hours.

No → a multi‑agency Team Around the Child (TAC) meeting must be arranged to agree next steps.

Worried About a Part‑Time Timetable? Need Support?

If you have concerns about your child’s attendance plan or need advice, you can speak to:

• Your child’s school (SENCO, class teacher, pastoral/attendance lead)
• Your EHCP Coordinator (if applicable)
• Health professionals involved in your child’s care
• Social worker or family support worker (if involved)
• RIASS

Useful Links

IPSEA’s support section on exclusion from school & full-time education

Related PDF Leaflets

• Part time Timetable Policy