Reduced timetables

What is a reduced or part-time timetable?

A reduced or part-time timetable refers to a temporary reduction in the amount of education a child of compulsory school age receives, compared to the full-time offer provided by their school or educational setting.

This arrangement should only be implemented in exceptional circumstances, where it is in the child’s best interests to meet their individual needs. A reduced timetable must not be used as a behaviour management tool.

Understanding the root causes of a child’s behaviour, such as trauma, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), mental or physical health issues, is crucial.

Schools should utilise internal expertise and seek advice from multi-agency partners, including the educational psychology service, the SENDCO drop-in and Children and Families, Contact Swindon.

How is it agreed?

A temporary reduced timetable requires:

  • the understanding, approval and written agreement of the child’s parents or carers and the school
  • consultation with relevant professionals, including:

How is it monitored?

  • Limited duration
    • An initial reduced timetable should not exceed six weeks
  • Regular reviews
    • The arrangement must be reviewed at least fortnightly, with the intention of gradually increasing attendance until the child is back full-time

Safeguarding

All reduced timetable arrangements must include a robust risk assessment, aligned with the Department for Education’s guidance on keeping children safe in education.

Any risks or hazards identified must be appropriately managed.

If evidence suggests the child would be exposed to significant risk by not being in school, a reduced timetable should not be considered.

Further information

For additional guidance, see working together to improve school attendance.

If you have questions or need advice about reduced timetables or school absences, email: reducedtimetables@swindon.gov.uk.

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