Every child of school age in Scotland has a right to full-time education (25 hours per week). In some exceptional circumstances, a temporary part-time or bespoke timetable may be agreed to support a child or young person’s health, wellbeing or successful reintegration into school.

A part-time timetable reduces the number of hours a child attends school for a short, clearly planned period. It is not a long-term arrangement and must always focus on supporting a return to full-time education as soon as possible.

When might a part-time timetable be considered?

A reduced timetable may be appropriate where:

• A child cannot manage full-time attendance due to health or medical reasons (including mental health)
• There are significant wellbeing or emotional regulation needs
• A young person is returning following a period of exclusion
• A phased reintegration is required after a prolonged absence
• There are complex circumstances requiring a short-term adjustment

Any arrangement must be:

✔ Time-limited (usually no more than 6 weeks)

✔ Agreed with parents/carers

✔ Supported by a clear reintegration plan

✔ Recorded within a Child’s Plan (where appropriate)

✔ Regularly reviewed

What a Part-Time Timetable Is Not

A part-time timetable:

• Is not a punishment
• Is not something a school can impose without parental agreement
• Is not a long-term alternative to full-time education
• Is not a response to behaviour without appropriate support

Children and young people should never be expected to ‘earn’ their right to return to full-time education.

How Does It Work?

If a part-time timetable is being considered:

1. The school will meet with you and your child to discuss concerns.
2. The reasons and intended outcomes will be clearly explained.
3. A written Reintegration or Childs Plan will be agreed.
4. The arrangement will be formally recorded.
5. Reviews will take place every 4–6 weeks.
6. The plan will focus on a supported return to full-time attendance.

Attendance during agreed reduced sessions is recorded appropriately. Safeguarding arrangements must be clear for any time your child is not in school.

Your Rights as Parents and Carers

• Your consent must be given before a part-time timetable is implemented.
• You have the right to decline the arrangement.
• Your child’s views must be sought and considered.
• The arrangement must comply with the Equality Act 2010.
• You should be fully involved in planning and review discussions.

Behaviour and Additional Support Needs

Part-time timetables should not be used solely because behaviour is challenging. Schools must first consider universal and targeted supports. Where behaviour is linked to disability or additional support needs, duties under the Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2009 continue to apply.

In exceptional circumstances, a short-term reduced timetable may support reintegration following exclusion, but this must be carefully planned, monitored and reviewed.

Monitoring and Safeguarding

All part-time timetables in Dumfries and Galloway are:

• Monitored by school leadership
• Reported to the local authority
• Regularly reviewed
• Linked to a clear plan for full-time return

The Education Authority retains a duty to ensure children receive appropriate education.

If You Have Concerns About Attendance

If your child is finding full-time attendance difficult, please contact your child’s school as early as possible. Early discussion helps ensure timely and supportive solutions.