Punjab Sets New Winter Timings for Teachers – Revised Schedule to Begin October 27 2025
The Punjab School Education Department (PSED) has introduced a new winter schedule for school teachers across the province. This updated timetable will come into effect on Monday, October 27, 2025, and will remain valid until April 15, 2026. The change aims to provide teachers with a more comfortable and productive work environment during the cold months while ensuring that school operations run smoothly.
New Winter Timings for Punjab Schools
According to the official notification, the working hours for both single-shift and double-shift schools have been revised to accommodate shorter daylight hours. The detailed schedule is as follows:
| School Type | Monday – Thursday | Friday | Alternate Saturdays |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Shift Schools | 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (Admin/Training/Planning) |
| Double-Shift (Morning) | 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (Admin/Training/Planning) |
| Double-Shift (Afternoon) | 12:45 PM – 4:00 PM | 1:45 PM – 4:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon (Admin/Training/Planning) |
The new timings have been designed to balance teaching schedules with administrative responsibilities while allowing teachers to start their day later in colder conditions.
Purpose Behind the Change
The revised schedule reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to improving working conditions for teachers during the winter season. The Education Department explained that the changes are part of the province’s seasonal education management plan, which is designed to adapt school operations according to weather and daylight changes.
The new timings are expected to:
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Offer relief to teachers from the discomfort of cold early mornings.
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Provide dedicated hours on alternate Saturdays for planning, training, and administrative duties.
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Enhance overall school management and academic organization during winter.
A senior official stated that all government schools across Punjab must strictly follow these timings to maintain uniformity and discipline throughout the province.
Instructions for Teachers
Teachers have been advised to take note of the following key points:
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Confirm Shift Type: Teachers should verify whether their school operates on a single or double shift.
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Update Class Schedules: Lesson plans and timetables should be adjusted according to the new timings.
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Inform Students and Parents: Communication about new hours should be shared promptly with all stakeholders.
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Be Present on Saturdays: Teachers are required to attend alternate Saturdays for administrative or training activities.
The department also clarified that once winter ends, schools will automatically return to summer timings starting in April 2026.
Impact on Students and Parents
The change will also affect daily routines for students and parents. Families have been urged to adjust their pick-and-drop arrangements accordingly. The department advised parents to ensure that children are properly dressed for the cold, especially in colder regions such as Murree, Rawalpindi, and northern Punjab, where temperatures can drop significantly in the mornings.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Effective From | October 27, 2025 |
| Applicable Till | April 15, 2026 |
| Issued By | Punjab School Education Department |
| Single-Shift Timing | 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM (Mon–Thu) |
| Friday Timing | 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Afternoon Shift (Double Shift) | 12:45 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Alternate Saturday Duty | 9:00 AM – 12:00 Noon |
Why This Matters
This initiative showcases the Punjab government’s ongoing efforts to support teacher welfare and improve academic productivity. By introducing separate working hours and dedicating alternate Saturdays for non-teaching work, the Education Department aims to promote better planning, training, and overall school efficiency.
The move has been well-received by educators who see it as a thoughtful step toward maintaining both teacher well-being and educational quality during challenging winter months.
FAQs
1. When will the new schedule start?
The new timings take effect from October 27, 2025, and will continue until April 15, 2026.
2. Does this apply to private schools?
The notification currently applies to government schools only. However, private schools may choose to follow similar schedules.
3. Are students required to attend school on alternate Saturdays?
No. These Saturday hours are strictly for teachers’ administrative and training purposes.
4. Will there be new summer timings later?
Yes. The Education Department will issue a separate summer schedule in April 2026.
In summary, the new winter schedule is designed to make school operations smoother and more comfortable for teachers while ensuring uninterrupted learning for students. It’s a practical step that balances educational needs with the realities of Punjab’s chilly winter months.
