A graphic image showing an educator having the good idea of reviewing their school's timetable
Tes Marketing
School management

The importance of reviewing and updating your school's timetable

Still running the same school timetable from three principals ago? Discover why regularly reviewing and updating your schedule is key to avoiding chaos, reducing stress, and delivering a smarter school year.
10 Jun 25

They say that history never repeats itself. So why is your school’s timetable stuck in the past? No, we’re not talking about your literal history lessons. We're talking about why it is vitally important to review and update your timetable on a regular basis.

It can be easy to let other priorities take precedence over reflecting on the most recent term or semester schedule. But we’re here to remind you that you’ll be doing your future self a big favour by taking some time now to look back while everything is still fresh.

Why should you review your school timetable?

Here’s why regularly reviewing your timetable is more than just another task on your list. It’s an investment in your school operations, which gives you the opportunity to:

  • Identify patterns in issues and clashes

  • Review room usage and availability

  • Check curriculum delivery against intent

  • Understand where student of staff stress points emerged

  • Ensure ongoing compliance and data readiness

A graphic image showing a timetabler updating the school timetable

Which questions should you ask yourself when reviewing your timetable?

Put aside those big existential thoughts like, “I wonder if there is still cake in the staff room?” and “what is the meaning of life?” *. Right now, it’s time to dig deep into your records and data and really critique your timetable. Here are some questions to get you started:

  • Were there missed or under-delivered curriculum areas?

  • Did any of the teaching staff have unbalanced teaching loads?

  • Were there consistent rooming clashes or reallocations?

  • Did students receive their preferred subjects?

  • Were there any issues raised by stakeholders (teachers, students or parents)?

How can you make the most of your timetable review?

Great, you’ve done the review - but now what? The magic happens in how you use what you’ve uncovered. Here are some practical ways to put that reflection to work:

  • Prioritise quick wins: Fix obvious clashes or inefficiencies before they roll into next term

  • Engage your team: Share your findings and invite input from leadership, admin staff and teachers. You might be surprised by what insights they can add

  • Map out longer-term improvements: Some changes might require time and coordination - like adjusting teaching loads or changing elective structures. Flag them now so you’re not firefighting later

  • Leverage smart tools: Don’t try to do it all manually. Modern timetabling software (like Tes Timetable) exists to save your sanity and sharpen your schedule

Ready for more?

The tips and tricks we’ve outlined here are just a jumping off point. If you want a comprehensive guide, complete with a handy checklist of questions to set you on your way, then download your free copy of The essential school timetable review checklist.  

Download now

Conclusion: Don’t just review - reimagine 

A well-structured and thought-out timetable can make the difference between a smooth, productive term and a logistical headache. Regularly reviewing and updating it isn’t just good practice - it’s a strategic move that supports staff wellbeing, curriculum delivery and school-wide efficiency.  

So don’t just settle for “what worked okay last time”. Take the time to ask tough questions, explore better solutions, and build a timetable that truly supports your students and staff. 

You can also learn more about how our software, Tes Timetable can streamline the process and take the guesswork out of great scheduling. 

 

 

*. No, we will not be taking any further questions.  

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