GUIDELINES FOR TIMETABLING AND ROUTINE IN SENIOR SCHOOL

1.1 Introduction

Developing an effective timetable and daily routine is essential for fostering a productive learning environment where both learners and educators interact to achieve intended learning outcomes. A well-structured timetable ensures comprehensive coverage of all learning areas and promotes a balance between academic and co-curricular activities.

These guidelines outline procedures for developing timetables that optimise time utilisation, enhance teaching and learning experiences, improve learner engagement, and support the achievement of overall educational goals in institutions of learning.

1.2 Timetabling Process

All schools shall establish a Timetabling Committee comprising the following members:

The timetabling process shall follow the steps below:

1. The Timetabling Committee shall hold planning meetings at the beginning of every term to develop or review the school timetable.

2. The draft timetable shall be presented to the Head of Institution for approval.

3. The approved timetable shall be displayed in administrative offices, classrooms, laboratories, and notice boards.

4. Every teacher shall extract their respective timetable for use in curriculum implementation.

1.3 Timetabling Guidelines for Senior School (Grades 10, 11 and 12)

• There shall be eight (8) lessons per day, drawn from core, elective, and support subjects.

• Physical Education (PE) shall have three (3) lessons per week.

• Information Communication Technology (ICT) shall have two (2) lessons per week.

• Lesson Study and Pastoral/Religious Programme Instruction (P/RPI) shall have one (1) lesson per week each.

• There shall be a cumulative total of forty (40) lessons per week.

• Each lesson shall last 40 minutes.

• Reporting time for all Senior School learners shall be 8.00 a.m.

• Lessons shall begin at 8.20 a.m. and end at 3.20 p.m.

• The time between 8.00 a.m. and 8.20 a.m. shall be used for roll call, assembly, and/or house or class meetings.

• Subjects with similar skills, knowledge, or concepts shall not be scheduled consecutively.

• Balance shall be maintained in the distribution of subjects between morning and afternoon sessions throughout the week.

• All core subjects (English, Kiswahili/KSL, Core Mathematics/Essential Mathematics, and Community Service Learning) shall be plotted as single lessons.

• Support subjects (PE and ICT) shall be plotted as single lessons.

• Only one double lesson shall be allowed for Arts and Sports Science and STEM subjects.

• Non-formal programmes shall be scheduled after the last lesson at 3.20 p.m.

• Health breaks shall be provided after every two lessons as follows:

  • First break: 10 minutes

  • Second break: 30 minutes

  • Lunch break: 1 hour

1.4 Weekly Lesson Allocation

Table 1.1: Weekly Lesson Allocation per Subject

1.5 Additional Guidance

1.5.1 Curriculum

All subjects included in the timetable shall be drawn from KICD-approved curriculum designs.

1.5.2 Daily Routine

The daily routine shall be guided by the Basic Education Regulations, 2015, Part VIII, Section 84.

(a) Day Schools

• Operating days: Monday to Friday

• Learners shall not report earlier than 7.15 a.m.

• Class hours: 8.00 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.

• Co-curricular activities: 3.30 p.m. – 4.45 p.m.

(b) Boarding Schools

• No boarding institution shall send away an unaccompanied learner later than 9.00 a.m.

• The latest reporting time for learners in boarding institutions shall be 5.00 p.m.

NB: In all schools, the national flag shall be raised during school assembly on Mondays and Fridays.

1.5.3 Arts and Sports Science, STEM and Physical Education

Arts and Sports Science, STEM practical subjects, and Physical Education lessons shall be scheduled before a break to allow learners adequate time to prepare for subsequent lessons.

1.5.4 Plotting of Lessons

When plotting lessons, the Timetabling Committee shall ensure that subjects with similar skills, knowledge, or concepts do not follow one another to enhance learner interest and reduce monotony.

1.5.5 Exceptions

In regions experiencing extreme temperatures, timetable start and end times may be adjusted provided that the required learner contact hours are maintained.

1.5.6 Pastoral/Religious Programmes of Instruction

Pastoral/Religious Programme Instruction sessions shall be facilitated by a responsible member of a recognised and legally registered religious organisation.

1.5.7 Parental Empowerment and Engagement

Schools shall create opportunities for parental/guardian engagement and information sharing in curriculum implementation.

1.5.8 Non-Formal Activities

Non-formal programmes shall be scheduled from 3.20 p.m. to 4.45 p.m. and may include:

• Games

• Clubs and societies

• Guidance and counselling

• Community Service Learning activities and projects

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