The Punjab government has officially announced the winter school timings 2025 for all educational institutions across the province. These new timings will remain in effect from October 16, 2025, to March 31, 2026, covering both public and private schools throughout Punjab.
When Do Winter School Timings Start in Punjab?
The Punjab school winter schedule 2025 begins today, October 16, 2025, and will continue until the end of March 2026. This annual adjustment helps students and teachers adapt to shorter daylight hours during the winter season while ensuring maximum classroom productivity.
Complete Winter Timings Breakdown
Single-Shift Male Schools Timings
For boys’ schools operating on a single shift, the Punjab education department has set the following schedule:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:45 AM to 2:45 PM
- Friday: 8:45 AM to 12:30 PM
This 6-hour weekday schedule provides adequate time for comprehensive learning while allowing students to return home before dark during winter months.
Single-Shift Female Schools Timings
Girls’ schools with single shifts will follow a slightly earlier schedule:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM to 12:15 PM
The earlier start time for female institutions ensures students can commute safely during daylight hours throughout the winter season.
Double-Shift Male Schools Timings
For boys’ schools operating double shifts, the schedule is divided into morning and afternoon sessions:
Morning Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:45 AM to 12:45 PM
- Friday: 8:45 AM to 12:30 PM
Afternoon/Evening Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Friday: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Double-Shift Female Schools Timings
Girls’ schools with double shifts will observe the following timings:
Morning Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM to 12:15 PM
Afternoon/Evening Shift:
- Monday to Thursday: 12:45 PM to 4:45 PM
- Friday: 1:45 PM to 4:45 PM
Why Are School Timings Changed in Winter?
The Punjab school timing changes are implemented annually to address several important factors:
- Safety Concerns: Shorter winter days mean reduced daylight hours, making early dismissal essential for student safety during commutes.
- Weather Conditions: Cold weather and fog during winter mornings can affect attendance and learning efficiency.
- Energy Conservation: Adjusted timings help reduce electricity consumption for heating and lighting in schools.
- Health Considerations: The schedule allows students to avoid traveling during the coldest morning hours, reducing exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Which Schools Are Affected?
These winter school hours Punjab 2025 apply to:
- All government schools in Punjab
- Private schools registered with the Punjab education authorities
- Primary, middle, and secondary level institutions
- Both urban and rural educational facilities
The School Education Department has directed all district education officers to ensure strict compliance with these timings across their respective jurisdictions.
Important Notes for Parents and Students
Friday Schedule Differences
Notice that Friday school timings are significantly shorter across all categories. This weekly adjustment has been a consistent feature of Punjab’s education system, allowing students time for weekend activities and family engagements.
Attendance Requirements
Despite the adjusted timings, the Punjab education policy maintains that schools must complete the required instructional hours and curriculum objectives. Teachers are expected to optimize classroom time to cover all subjects effectively.
Uniform Implementation Date
All schools must implement these timings simultaneously from October 16, 2025. No institution is permitted to deviate from the official schedule without prior approval from district education authorities.
School Timings Comparison: Winter vs. Summer
Tips for Parents During Winter School Season
1. Adjust Morning Routines: With later start times, help children maintain consistent sleep schedules to avoid morning rushes.
2. Winter Clothing: Ensure students wear appropriate warm clothing, especially in northern Punjab districts where temperatures drop significantly.
3. Transportation Planning: If using school transport services, confirm the updated pickup and drop-off times with providers.
4. Homework Management: With earlier dismissals on Fridays, plan weekend homework schedules accordingly.
5. Health Precautions: Cold weather can increase vulnerability to flu and other illnesses. Maintain good hygiene practices and ensure proper nutrition.
District-wise Implementation
The Punjab school notification 2025 applies uniformly across all districts including:
- Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Gujranwala (major cities)
- Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, and Jhang
- Rahim Yar Khan, Kasur, Gujrat, Sahiwal, and Okara
- All other districts and tehsils across Punjab province
District Education Authorities (DEAs) in each region are responsible for monitoring compliance and addressing any implementation issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will normal school timings resume?
Normal summer school timings will resume on April 1, 2026, following the conclusion of the winter schedule on March 31, 2026.
Do these timings apply to private schools?
Yes, all private schools registered with Punjab education authorities must follow the official school timings Punjab 2025 notification.
What about exam schedules?
Annual and midterm examinations will be conducted within these adjusted timings. Schools will receive separate notifications regarding examination schedules from the Punjab Examination Commission and respective boards.
Are there any regional exceptions?
No regional exceptions have been announced. All districts must implement the timings uniformly from October 16, 2025.
Stay Updated on Education News
For the latest updates on Punjab education department announcements, school policies, and academic calendars, parents and students should regularly check official government portals and school communication channels.
The winter schedule represents the government’s commitment to student welfare while maintaining educational standards across Punjab’s extensive school network. Proper implementation of these timings will ensure smooth operations throughout the winter season.
Last Updated: October 16, 2025
Source: Punjab School Education Department
Effective Period: October 16, 2025 – March 31, 2026
For official notifications and updates, visit the Punjab School Education Department website or contact your district education office.
