New School Timings for Summer Session 2025 in Punjab: What You Need to Know
On March 26, 2025, the Government of the Punjab School Education Department issued a notification (No. SO(A-I)1-31/2022) announcing revised school timings for the summer session, effective from April 1, 2025, to October 15, 2025. These changes aim to ensure a conducive learning environment for students and teachers during the warmer months. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the new timings, activities for teachers, compliance directives, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Overview of the New Timings for Students
The summer session timings for students in Punjab’s public schools have been adjusted to accommodate the heat while maintaining educational continuity. The timings vary depending on the type of school (single shift or double shift) and the day of the week.
- Single Shift Schools:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
- Double Shift Schools:
- Morning Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
- Evening Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM
- Friday: 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Timings and Activities for Teachers
Teachers’ schedules have also been outlined to ensure they have time for both classroom duties and professional development. The notification specifies that teachers in double-shift schools will alternate between morning and evening shifts, with additional activities scheduled on alternate Saturdays.
Teachers’ Schedule Table
| Schools | Days | Timings | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Shift | Monday to Thursday | 7:45 AM to 2:30 PM | Resource preparation and formulation of lesson plans for classes |
| Friday | 7:45 AM to 12:30 PM | Continuous Professional Development (CPD) trainings, academic & co-curricular activities, etc. | |
| Double Shift (Morning) | Monday to Thursday | 7:45 AM to 2:00 PM | Undertaken by teachers of morning/afternoon/evening shifts during school hours |
| Friday | 7:45 AM to 12:30 PM | Same as above | |
| Double Shift (Evening) | Monday to Thursday | 12:45 PM to 6:00 PM | Same as above |
| Friday | 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM | Same as above | |
| Alternate Saturday | All Schools | 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon | Professional development and school enhancement activities |
Compliance and Administrative Directives
The notification emphasizes strict adherence to the new timings across all public schools in Punjab. Key directives include:
- Role of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs): All CEOs of District Education Authorities (DEAs) are responsible for ensuring compliance. Non-compliance or negligence will result in legal action.
- Adjustment for Gender-Specific Schools: CEOs are instructed to adjust the 15-minute gap between the opening and closing times of boys’ and girls’ schools on a case-by-case basis to ensure smooth operations.
Why the Change in Timings?
The adjustment in school timings during the summer session is a practical response to the rising temperatures in Punjab, which can make midday hours uncomfortable for students and teachers. By scheduling classes earlier in the day and shortening Friday sessions, the government aims to:
- Protect students and staff from heat-related health issues.
- Maintain academic productivity by avoiding the hottest parts of the day.
- Provide teachers with dedicated time for professional development and lesson planning.
FAQs About the New School Timings
Q1: When do the new timings take effect?
A1: The new timings are effective from April 1, 2025, to October 15, 2025.
Q2: Do these timings apply to both public and private schools?
A2: The notification specifically applies to public schools in Punjab. Private schools may have their own schedules but are often encouraged to align with government guidelines.
Q3: What happens if a school does not follow the new timings?
A3: Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of District Education Authorities are directed to ensure compliance, and any negligence will be dealt with according to the law.
Q4: Are there any special provisions for Friday prayers?
A4: Yes, the timings on Fridays are shorter (ending at 12:00 Noon for students and 12:30 PM for teachers in most cases) to accommodate Friday prayers.
Q5: What activities are teachers expected to do on alternate Saturdays?
A5: Teachers will engage in professional development, academic and co-curricular activities, and school enhancement initiatives from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon.
Conclusion
The revised school timings for the summer session of 2025 in Punjab reflect a thoughtful approach to balancing education with the well-being of students and teachers during the hot months. By adjusting schedules, providing dedicated time for teachers’ professional growth, and ensuring strict compliance, the Punjab School Education Department aims to create a safe and productive learning environment. Parents, students, and educators are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes and adhere to the new schedule to ensure a smooth academic year. For any further clarifications, contacting the local District Education Authority is recommended.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the new school timings, ensuring all key details from the notification are covered in an organized and reader-friendly format. If you’d like to adjust the topic or add more details, let me know!
