Are you wondering what the new school timings in Punjab 2025–26 will be? The Government of Punjab, School Education Department has officially announced new timings for all public schools across the province, effective from October 27, 2025, to April 15, 2026.
This change comes as the weather transitions into winter, and the department aims to provide comfortable learning hours for both students and teachers. However, many parents, teachers, and students are still unclear about the exact timing schedule and how it will affect single-shift and double-shift schools. Here’s everything you need to know about the new notification.
Official Notification for Punjab School Timings 2025–26
The latest Punjab Government notification (SO(A-1)1-31/2025), issued on October 26, 2025, outlines specific school timings for students and teachers. These timings are to be followed strictly in all public schools across Punjab, including Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, and other districts.
The changes apply from 27th October 2025 until 15th April 2026 and cover both single-shift and double-shift schools.
School Timings for Students
Single Shift Schools
- Monday to Thursday: 08:45 AM – 01:30 PM
- Friday: 08:45 AM – 12:30 PM
These timings are applicable to the majority of government schools across Punjab.
Double Shift / Afternoon Schools
Morning Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 08:45 AM – 01:30 PM
- Friday: 08:45 AM – 12:30 PM
Afternoon (Evening) Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM
- Friday: 02:00 PM – 04:00 PM
This new arrangement ensures proper utilization of school infrastructure while maintaining comfort and safety for students in both shifts.
School Timings for Teachers
Teachers’ schedules have also been adjusted to allow for lesson planning, academic improvement, and professional training.
Single Shift Schools
- Monday to Thursday: 08:30 AM – 02:00 PM
(Includes time for lesson planning and classroom preparation) - Friday: 08:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Double Shift / Afternoon Schools
Morning Shift Teachers:
- Monday to Thursday: 08:30 AM – 02:00 PM
- Friday: 08:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Afternoon (Evening) Shift Teachers:
- Monday to Thursday: 12:45 PM – 04:00 PM
- Friday: 01:45 PM – 04:00 PM
Alternate Saturday:
- Timing: 09:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
(Dedicated for training, CPD sessions, and academic activities)
Focus on Teacher Development
According to the notification, Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and other academic and co-curricular activities will be conducted during extended school hours and on alternate Saturdays. This step aims to enhance teaching quality and ensure that educators stay up to date with modern teaching methods.
Teachers are encouraged to use this additional time for:
- Lesson planning and resource preparation
- Skill improvement sessions
- Student performance evaluation
Flexibility in Boys’ and Girls’ School Timings
The Chief Executive Officers (DEAs) of each district have been given authority to make a 15-minute adjustment in opening and closing times for boys’ and girls’ schools. This ensures smooth transportation and safety, especially during early morning hours.
For example:
- Girls’ schools may open slightly later for safety and convenience.
- Boys’ schools may begin or close a few minutes earlier, depending on district needs.
Why the New School Timings Matter
The revised winter school timings 2025–26 ensure that:
- Students arrive after sunrise to avoid cold morning temperatures.
- Teachers get adequate time for lesson planning and training.
- Double-shift schools operate smoothly without overlapping schedules.
These small adjustments improve attendance, focus, and overall productivity in the classroom environment.
Compliance and Monitoring
The School Education Department has directed all Chief Executive Officers (DEAs) across Punjab to ensure strict compliance with the notification. Regular inspections will be conducted to confirm that schools are following the updated timings without exception.
Final Words
The Punjab School Timings Notification 2025–26 is a well-structured initiative to balance student comfort, teacher workload, and educational quality. By following these new timings, schools can ensure a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment throughout the winter session.
Parents are advised to check with their children’s schools for any minor timing adjustments and ensure punctuality according to the new schedule.