School attendance

A part-time timetable is when a child attends school for fewer hours than the rest of their class. It must only be used in very exceptional circumstances and must always be temporary.

When can it be used?

A part-time timetable may be considered when it is genuinely in your child's best interests, for example: 

• Medical reasons - your child is recovering and cannot yet manage fulltime hours
• Reintegration - to help your child gradually return after a period of absence
• Specific exceptional needs based on their individual situation

It must not be used: 

• To manage behaviour 
• Instead of providing support for additional needs
• To reduce hours because of a child's SEND (this may be discriminatory) 

Your rights as a parent or carer

• A part-time timetable cannot be put in place without your agreement
• You and your child must be asked for your views and these views must be recorded
• You must be given a clear plan showing why it is needed and how it will help your child
• You and your child should be involved in regular review meetings to agree next steps
• It should last for the shortest time necessary

If your child has an education, health and care plan (EHCP), an early review may be needed to check support is appropriate. 

What schools must do

The school must: 

• Complete a written plan explaining the reasons, support in place, and how your child will return to fulltime hours. 
• Carry out a safeguarding risk assessment
• Record attendance correctly and notify the Norfolk County Council

How long should it last?

• It must be time-limited - usually a maximum of six weeks
• It must be reviewed regularly (usually every 2-4 weeks)
• It should end as soon as your child can attend fulltime again

If you're worried or unsure

A part-time timetable cannot be put in place without your agreement. In the first instance, try to talk to a member of staff at your child's school about your worries. You can ask for:

• Clarification of why the timetable is needed
• A review meeting to look at the support for your child 

If you feel pressured or your child is being sent home without a formal process, this may be an illegal exclusion.

If you are unable to resolve the situation with the school, you can contact the Attendance Team for advice by phone on 01603 223681 or by email at [email protected]

Read our privacy notice on how we use your personal information.

Need support regarding your child's special educational needs and/or disabilities?

• The SEND and inclusion support line is for families and professionals looking for support and advice on: 0333 313 7165
• Norfolk SENDIASS offers free, confidential advice for parents. Visit the Norfolk SENDIASS website or call the helpline on 01603 704070.