The Punjab government has officially announced new winter school timings for all public and private institutions across the province. These timings will take effect from October 16, 2025, and remain in place until March 31, 2026.
The new schedule has been introduced to ensure student safety and comfort during the colder months when early mornings can be foggy and chilly. Below is the complete timing schedule for boys’ and girls’ schools, including single and double-shift institutions.
New Winter Timings for Single-Shift Schools
According to the official notification from the Punjab School Education Department, the following timings will apply to single-shift schools:
| Category | Days | Start Time | Closing Time |
| Boys’ Schools | Monday–Thursday | 8:45 AM | 2:45 PM |
| Boys’ Schools | Friday | 8:45 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Girls’ Schools | Monday–Thursday | 8:30 AM | 2:30 PM |
| Girls’ Schools | Friday | 8:30 AM | 12:15 PM |
The slight difference in starting times for female institutions is meant to ensure safe travel during early morning hours.
Timings for Double-Shift Schools
For schools operating in two shifts, the Punjab government has also set clear hours for both morning and afternoon sessions.
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| Category | Session | Days | Start Time | Closing Time |
| Boys’ Schools | Morning | Monday–Thursday | 8:45 AM | 12:45 PM |
| Boys’ Schools | Morning | Friday | 8:45 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Boys’ Schools | Afternoon | Monday–Thursday | 1:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| Boys’ Schools | Afternoon | Friday | 2:00 PM | 5:00 PM |
| Girls’ Schools | Morning | Monday–Thursday | 8:30 AM | 12:30 PM |
| Girls’ Schools | Morning | Friday | 8:30 AM | 12:15 PM |
| Girls’ Schools | Afternoon | Monday–Thursday | 12:45 PM | 4:45 PM |
| Girls’ Schools | Afternoon | Friday | 1:45 PM | 4:45 PM |
This new double-shift schedule helps balance class timing, staff management, and daylight availability during winter months.
Why the Government Changed School Timings
Every year, the Punjab government adjusts school timings during winter to make sure students and teachers are not exposed to extreme cold, fog, and limited daylight.
The goal behind this timing change is to:
- Ensure safe travel for children, especially during foggy mornings.
- Prevent health issues caused by exposure to cold weather.
- Support parents and schools in maintaining attendance and punctuality.
- Promote a comfortable learning environment across the province.
Officials from the Punjab Education Department have directed all District Education Authorities to strictly implement these timings from October 16, 2025.
Important Guidelines for Parents and Students
To help families adjust smoothly to the new winter timings, the government has advised schools and parents to keep the following in mind:
- Make sure children wear proper winter uniforms (sweaters, caps, gloves).
- Avoid sending students too early before the school gates open.
- Stay updated through school WhatsApp groups or notice boards.
- Check for further updates in case of dense fog holidays or weather warnings.
School administrations have been asked to ensure proper heating arrangements in classrooms and regular attendance checks during this period.
Instructions for Teachers and Administration
Teachers and staff have been instructed to strictly follow the revised schedule. Schools with double shifts should coordinate properly to avoid overlap between morning and afternoon sessions.
Heads of institutions have also been directed to:
- Conduct morning assemblies after 9:00 AM where possible.
- Monitor pick-up and drop-off safety.
- Maintain communication with parents during fog alerts.
- Ensure lights and heating systems are functional in classrooms.
How This Change Helps Students
The new schedule allows students to:
- Attend school during brighter hours with improved visibility.
- Stay safe from early-morning smog and fog.
- Maintain better attendance and health during cold weather.
Parents have also appreciated the change, calling it a practical decision by the Punjab government.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s new winter timings for schools (2025–26) are designed to ensure student safety and smooth academic activity during the cold season. From October 16, 2025, all schools—public and private—are required to follow the updated schedule. Parents, teachers, and students should plan accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
