Part-time timetables

An increasing number of children and young people attend school on a part-time timetable for part of their school experience. Most of these arrangements are managed well and reviewed within appropriate timescales. When used appropriately, part-time timetables can help reduce anxiety about attending school. They can also support children and young people to re-engage with learning and gradually increase the time they spend in school.

However, not all schools use part-time timetables in line with national guidance (Included, engaged and involved part 1: promoting and managing school attendance (gov.scot)).  Too many pupils are not receiving their full entitlement to education and spend too long on reduced timetables. In a few schools, this is giving rise to safeguarding concerns. Schools should monitor and review part-time timetables regularly and robustly as part of planning around the child. These arrangements should be used for the shortest time possible, and staff must ensure that every child and young person receives their full education entitlement.