The requirements from the government are straightforward and non-negotiable for all schools. You must clearly state the following on your website:

• The official start time of the compulsory school day. This is the time when all students are expected to be present and ready for learning.

• The official end time of the compulsory school day. This is the time when the compulsory school day finishes for all students.

• The total time this amounts to in a typical week. This figure must be clearly stated in hours (for example, 32.5 hours per week).

It's crucial to get the weekly total right. The DfE guidance specifies that this total should include breaks, but it must not include optional after-school activities or enrichment clubs. This is a common point of confusion and an easy way to become non-compliant.

Why This Information Matters

While the rules are simple, their implementation is vital. This information provides essential clarity for parents and carers about the structure of their child's day. It is a fundamental piece of information that Ofsted inspectors will look for when reviewing your school's website for statutory compliance.

Many schools already publish their start and end times, but often forget to include the calculated weekly total, leaving them technically non-compliant.

Unsure if Your Website is Compliant?

Are you confident that your school's website meets every single DfE requirement? From the length of the school day to the details of your latest policies, it’s a lot to keep track of.

Acuity AI for Education offers a simple, powerful solution. Our AI-driven tool audits your entire school website against the latest statutory guidance. In just minutes, it checks for missing information, outdated policies, and other compliance risks, delivering a clear and actionable report.

Find out if your website is fully compliant today with a completely free, no-obligation trial at https://acuity.education/.