Bespoke and Part Time Timetables

Bespoke Timetables

A bespoke timetable is an individually tailored schedule designed to meet the specific needs of a learner. These are often used for:

  • Pupils with Additional Support Needs (ASN): To accommodate learning styles, sensory needs, or medical requirements.
  • Pupils with Mental Health Concerns: To provide a gradual return to full-time education.
  • Pupils at Risk of Exclusion: As part of an intervention strategy.
  • Vocational or Alternative Learning Pathways: Where a pupil attends a vocational or alternative pathway

Part-Time Timetables

A part-time timetable is when a pupil is not in school full-time but attends reduced hours. Part Time timetables must be:

  • Short-term and regularly reviewed to ensure progression a return to full-time learning.
  • Agreed with parents/guardians and ideally the young person.
  • Supported with clear plans for how lost learning time will be addressed (e.g., through remote learning, home support, or alternative provision).

National Policy and Practice

  1. Statutory Duty of Education Authorities
    • The Education (Scotland) Act 1980 states that local authorities have a duty to provide adequate and efficient education suitable to the needs of every child.
    • Part-time timetables should not be used as a long-term solution unless exceptional circumstances apply.
  2. Included, Engaged, and Involved Part 1 & 2 (Scottish Government Guidance)
    • Highlights that exclusion should only be a last resort, and alternatives, such as bespoke or flexible learning plans, should be considered.
    • Emphasises that part-time timetables must be carefully planned, agreed upon, and reviewed to ensure they do not become a form of “hidden exclusion.”
  3. The Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Act 2004
    • Requires schools to identify and support pupils with additional needs, which can sometimes involve tailored timetables.
  4. Rights-Based Approach (UNCRC & GIRFEC)
    • UNCRC Incorporation in Scotland reinforces the right to education (Article 28), meaning part-time or bespoke timetables must be in the best interests of the child.
    • Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) requires that any flexible timetable supports the wellbeing indicators (SHANARRI).

DG Guidance for Schools Part Time Timetables

D&G PT TT GuidanceDownload