Under section 41(1)(b) of the School Standards and Framework Act 1998 the governing body of a community, voluntary controlled or community special school are responsible for determining the times of the school sessions. That is to say, the times at which each of the school sessions (or, if there is only one, the school session) is to begin and end on any day.

These Regulations set out the procedures to be taken by the governing body of such a school before making any change in its session times. They do not apply to foundation, voluntary aided or foundation special schools. The Regulations are explained in more detail below.

Regulation 2 sets out the procedures which the governing body must follow.

Regulation 3 specifies when a change in the times of school sessions takes effect.

Regulation 4 provides for the meeting with parents (which is required to be held before any change in school session times is made) to be under the control of the governing body.