Punjab Schools to Follow New Winter Timings from October 16: Here’s What You Need to Know

The Punjab government has announced new winter school timings for all public and private institutions across the province. These timings will be in effect from October 16, 2025, to March 31, 2026, aiming to make school hours more suitable for the chilly season. The change is designed to protect students and teachers from early morning cold while ensuring that learning continues without disruption.

Why the Change Was Needed

Every year, as temperatures drop across Punjab, students—especially young children—struggle with the cold mornings. Many have to leave home before sunrise, making travel difficult and sometimes unsafe. Recognizing these challenges, the Punjab School Education Department has revised the school schedule to give everyone a slightly later start, providing a more comfortable and practical routine during winter.

New Timings for Single-Shift Schools

The government has set slightly different schedules for boys’ and girls’ schools that operate in a single shift.

For Boys’ Schools:

• Monday to Thursday: 8:45 AM to 2:45 PM

• Friday: 8:45 AM to 12:30 PM

For Girls’ Schools:

• Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM

• Friday: 8:30 AM to 12:15 PM

The 15-minute difference in start times for girls’ and boys’ schools is intended to help manage traffic and ensure smoother drop-off and pick-up times for families.

New Timings for Double-Shift Schools

Some schools in Punjab operate in two shifts—morning and evening. These institutions will also follow revised winter hours.

For Boys’ Schools:

• Morning Shift: 8:45 AM to 12:45 PM (Monday to Thursday)
  and till 12:30 PM on Fridays

• Evening Shift: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Thursday)
  and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Fridays

For Girls’ Schools:

• Morning Shift: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM (Monday to Thursday)
  and till 12:15 PM on Fridays

• Evening Shift: 12:45 PM to 4:45 PM (Monday to Thursday)
  and 1:45 PM to 4:45 PM on Fridays

These timings are meant to maintain the total number of study hours while giving enough time for transition between shifts.

Strict Implementation Across Punjab

All District Education Authorities (DEAs) have been instructed to make sure every public and private school follows these new timings without exception. Officials have emphasized that the decision balances academic needs with health and safety concerns during the colder months.

School principals have also been advised to take steps to protect students from the cold. This includes keeping classrooms properly ventilated, ensuring heating where available, and encouraging students to wear warm clothes or school sweaters.

Focus on Student Comfort and Learning

Education experts have welcomed the new timetable, saying it reflects the government’s concern for student well-being. Adjusting school hours during winter can help reduce absenteeism and improve concentration in class. When children are comfortable, they are more likely to learn effectively and enjoy their time at school.

When Will Regular Timings Resume?

The winter schedule will remain in place until March 31, 2026. Once the weather starts to warm up, schools will revert to their regular summer timings from April 1, 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Punjab government’s decision to introduce new winter timings is a thoughtful move that prioritizes both education and student health. By starting school a little later, students can avoid the harsh early-morning cold and reach school safely. It’s a small change with a big impact—making the winter months more comfortable, productive, and enjoyable for everyone involved in education.