5. Part-time timetables
A ‘part-time timetable’ is when a pupil is asked to attend school for only part of the school day, such as starting or leaving school at lunchtime.
All children are entitled to a fulltime education and as a rule, schools cannot place a pupil on a part/time timetable.
In very exceptional circumstances a school may put in place a temporary part-time timetable to meet a pupil’s individual need. Generally, this will only be where a medical condition prevents a pupil from attending full-time education although a part-time timetable may also be considered as part of a reintegration package.
In agreeing to a part-time timetable, a school has agreed to a pupil being absent from school for part of the week or day and therefore must record it as authorised absence.