This guide is the second in the three-part series covering the end-to-end process for Bromcom’s wTimetable software. It focuses on curriculum building, guiding users through the creation and configuration of the curriculum model, including bands, blocks and classes, in preparation for timetable scheduling.
The Curriculum Building Guide is divided into the following sections:
THE SCREENSHOTS USED IN THE GUIDE ARE FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY AND MAY DIFFER IN A LIVE SCHOOL’S MIS.
- Expand each item for guidance on the various functions within the wTimetable Module in Bromcom.
- To print this as a checklist, click ‘Collapse All’ (button on the right), then right-click the page and select ‘Print’.
- To print this as a full guide, click ‘Expand All‘, then right-click the page and select ‘Print‘.
Curriculum Plan Navigation
This section explains the layout and navigation of the Curriculum Plan page, including the page controls and left-hand panel used throughout the curriculum building process.
The page controls at the top of the Curriculum Plan page are used to select the Year Group to work with and record planning notes for the timetable. These controls remain available throughout the curriculum planning process and are also used within the Scheduling page.
This section covers:
Year Group Selector
The Year Group dropdown is used to switch between Year Groups within the timetable. Selecting a different Year Group updates the Curriculum Plan page to display the corresponding curriculum structure.
Select the Year Group dropdown.
Select the required Year Group.
The Curriculum Plan page refreshes to display the selected Year Group.
Notes
The Notes button, located on the right-hand side of the page, is used to record timetable planning information. Notes are stored at timetable level and remain available regardless of the selected Year Group.
Select the Notes button.
Select Add Note.
Enter the required information and select Save.
The saved notes remain available throughout the timetabling process and can be edited or deleted at any time. Each note is automatically date and time stamped when created, providing a record of when notes were added.
The left-hand panel is used to review timetable information and build the curriculum structure within the Curriculum Plan page. It contains four tabs that provide access to Subjects, Staff, Rooms, and Blocks, allowing information to be reviewed and used throughout the curriculum building process.
Using the blue arrow icons, the left-hand panel can be enlarged for easier viewing or hidden to provide additional space when working on the Curriculum Plan page.
Shared Functionality
The Subjects, Staff, and Rooms tabs include common functionality to help review and manage the information available within the project.
Search
Use the Search field to locate specific records within the selected tab.
Edit
Select the Edit button to manage the entities available within the project. This allows entities to be added, edited, or excluded as required.
Sorting
Select a column header to sort the information in ascending or descending order.
Filtering
Select the Filter icon to apply filters and refine the information displayed in the table.
Drag and Drop
Select and hold the six-dot icon next to an item to drag and drop it into the required location within the curriculum plan.
The following sections explain the purpose and functionality of each tab within the left-hand panel.
The Subjects tab displays all subjects available within the project. Subjects are used when building the curriculum model and can be added to Blocks within the Curriculum Plan.
The following information is displayed for each subject:
- Subject Code
- Subject Name
- Short Name
- Department
Select and hold the drag icon next to a subject to move it into the required block within the curriculum plan.
The Staff tab displays active staff within the project. Staff information is used when building the curriculum model and reviewing staff availability against assigned curriculum requirements.
Staff members can be dragged onto classes to assign teaching staff within the curriculum model.
This section covers:
Overview
The following information is displayed for each staff member:
- Staff Code
- Staff Name
- Subject – Displays the subjects assigned to the staff member.
- Assigned – Displays the number of periods assigned to the staff member for each subject in the Curriculum Plan, compared with the Contact Time allocated for that subject on the Staffing page.
- Total – Displays the total Contact Time assigned to the staff member from the Staffing page.
Note: Where no Subject Relationship and Contact Time is set, 0/0 is displayed in the Assigned column.
When staff members are assigned to classes, the staff member row is colour coded to indicate the relationship between assigned periods and available Contact Time:
- Blue – Periods assigned are less than the staff member’s Contact Time for the subject.
- Green – Periods assigned match the staff member’s Contact Time for the subject.
- Amber – Periods assigned exceed the staff member’s Contact Time for the subject, but the staff member’s total assigned periods remain within their overall Contact Time.
- Red – Periods assigned exceed the staff member’s Contact Time for the subject and the staff member’s total assigned periods exceed their overall Contact Time.
Staff View Options
Use the Staff Type dropdown to filter staff by:
- Teacher
- Other
- Classroom Support
Use the Display dropdown to:
Note: Simple View hides the subject breakdown and displays only the staff member’s total assigned Contact Time.
Hover over the Assigned column to view a breakdown of assigned Contact Time by subject.
Colour-coded warning icons display tooltips when Contact Time has been exceeded:
- Amber – Assigned periods exceed the allocated Contact Time for one or more subjects.
- Red – Total assigned periods exceed the staff member’s overall Contact Time.
Additional Staff Actions
Select the three-dot menu next to a staff member to access additional actions.
Substitute Staff
Select Substitute Staff to assign a staff member’s timetable or curriculum assignments to another staff member.
Tick the required substitute staff member and select Substitute Staff.
Select Save to complete the substitution, Cancel to return to the timetable without saving, or Back to return to the staff selection list.
Note: Staff members assigned a Non-Contact Code cannot be selected as a substitute. An error message is displayed if a substitution is attempted.
Display this Staff Member’s Timetable
Select Display this Staff Member’s Timetable to open the selected staff member’s individual timetable.
The timetable can be used to review scheduled lessons, room allocations, and Non-Contact Codes.
Note: The Teacher Selector dropdown can be used to switch between staff members. Select Export to export the currently displayed timetable.
Non-Contact Codes can also be assigned directly from this view.
To assign a Non-Contact Code:
- Left-click an individual teaching period to assign a Non-Contact Code to that period.
- Left-click the required day of the week to assign the selected Non-Contact Code to all teaching periods for that day.
Note: This is particularly useful when assigning Non-Contact Codes for part-time staff members.
Swap Staff
Select Swap Staff to exchange the timetable allocations of two staff members, including room allocations where applicable.
Tick the second staff member and choose whether to include Non-Contact Codes:
- Yes – Includes all Non-Contact Codes except NA.
- No – Excludes Non-Contact Codes from the swap.
Select Swap Staff.
Review any issues, choose whether to include Room Allocations, then select Save.
Note: The following rules apply when swapping staff:
- Staff members with timetable conflicts cannot be swapped.
- Swap Room Allocation is unavailable if both staff members are scheduled in the same teaching period and assigned to the same room.
- Swap Staff can be used for both main and additional staff.
If the swap includes one or more grouped Non-Contact Codes, the staff members are swapped but original room allocations are retained. A message is displayed to confirm this behaviour.
The Rooms tab displays active rooms available within the project. Rooms are used when building the curriculum model and can be assigned to classes within the Curriculum Plan.
Rooms can be dragged onto classes to assign teaching rooms within the curriculum model.
This sections covers:
Overview
The following information is displayed for each room:
- Code – Displays the room code.
- Teacher – Displays the staff code associated with the room. If multiple staff members are assigned to a room through the Relationships page, ** is displayed. Hover over the indicator to view the associated staff codes. If no staff members are assigned, a double dash (—) is displayed.
- Type – Displays the room type.
- Site – Displays the site assigned to the room.
- Total – Displays the total number of timetable periods where the room is assigned.
When rooms are assigned to classes, the room row is colour coded as follows:
- Blue – Assigned periods are less than room availability.
- Red – Assigned periods exceed room availability.
Preferred Room Assignment
When a staff member has a preferred room assigned, the preferred room is automatically assigned to the class when the staff member is added in the Curriculum Plan.
The following rules apply:
- If a room has already been assigned to the class, the existing room assignment is retained and the staff member’s preferred room is not assigned.
- If the preferred room is already in use during the selected period, the existing room assignment is retained and the preferred room is also assigned to the new class. This creates a room conflict that can be reviewed and resolved later.
- Preferred rooms are not automatically assigned when additional staff are added to a class.
Additional Room Actions
Select the three-dot menu next to a room to access additional actions.
Display this Room’s Timetable
Select Display this Room’s Timetable to open the selected room’s individual timetable.
The timetable view provides the same functionality as Display this Staff Member’s Timetable, including reviewing scheduled lessons, room allocations, and assigning Non-Contact Codes.
Swap Room
Use Swap Room to exchange the timetable allocations of two rooms, including Non-Contact Codes where selected.
Note: The swap process follows the same functionality as Swap Staff.
Select the second room, choose whether to include Non-Contact Codes and select Swap Rooms.
Review any issues, then select Save to complete the swap.
The Blocks tab displays the blocks created within the Curriculum Plan for the selected Year Group. The tab provides an overview of the curriculum structure and allows blocks to be viewed and managed.
This section covers:
Overview
The following information is displayed for each block:
- Block Type – Displays the block type badge.
- Block Code – Displays the block code.
- Subject/Group Name – Displays the subject or group name.
- Subject Colour Badge – Displays the subject colour. Hover over the badge to view the full subject description.
- Year Group/Band – Displays the Year Group and Band assigned to the block.
- Scheduled Periods / Period Count – Displays the number of scheduled periods compared with the total period count for the block.
Use the Filter icon to filter the displayed blocks by Band.
View Details
Select View Details to display the full block structure for the selected Year Group.
The window displays information by Year Group, Band, and Block.
Use the available options to:
- Select the required Year Group using the dropdown.
- Switch between Scheduled and Unscheduled blocks.
- Switch between displaying Subject and Staff information within classes.
Note: Scheduled classes display a lighter version of the subject colour.
Additional Block Actions
Select the three-dot menu next to a block to access additional actions.
Copy Block
Select Copy Block to create a copy of the block within an available Band in the same Year Group.
When a block is copied, the new block name is displayed as Copy of Block [Block Code/1..].
Edit Block
Select Edit Block to open the expanded block view and amend the block structure.
Edit Classcodes
Select Edit Classcodes to amend class names within the block.
For more information, refer to the Blocks section of Curriculum Plan Building within this guide.
Delete Block
Select Delete Block to remove the block.
A warning message is displayed:
“Are you sure you want to delete the whole block? If you proceed all the block’s settings will be lost.”
Confirm the deletion to remove the block and its associated settings.
Unschedule Block
Select Unschedule Block to remove all scheduled sessions for the block.
Note: Unschedule Block is only available when the block contains scheduled sessions. The option is disabled when no sessions have been scheduled.
Spread to Bands
Select Spread to Bands to extend a block across multiple Bands within the same Year Group. This creates a Cross-Band Block.
Note: When a block becomes a Cross-Band Block, a green X indicator is displayed.
The Spread to Bands option is unavailable when:
- The block is already a Cross-Band Block across all available Bands.
- The Year Group contains only one Band.
Split to Bands
Select Split to Bands to create a separate copy of the Cross-Band Block within each band.
This removes the Cross-Band Block structure.
The Split to Bands option is unavailable when the block exists in only one Band.
Note: Additional functionality is available for the Blocks tab within the Scheduling page.
Curriculum Plan Building
This section explains how to build and manage a curriculum structure within the Curriculum Plan, including creating bands and blocks, assigning resources, and using the available tools.
Bands
Bands are used to divide a year group into separate groups of classes that can be taught at different times. This provides greater flexibility when building the curriculum model and helps make the best use of available staffing and room resources.
For example, a Year Group may contain six PE classes but only three PE teachers. As all classes cannot be taught simultaneously, splitting the Year Group into two or more Bands allows PE lessons to be scheduled at different times while making the best use of the available staff.
By default, each Year Group contains a single Band (Band A).
Add a Band
Use the +Band dropdown to add additional bands.
Choose where the new Band should be inserted:
- Before Band A.
- Between existing Bands.
- After the last Band.
Navigating Between Bands
Select the arrow icon to move between Bands.
Rename or Delete a Band
Select the Pencil icon to rename a Band.
Enter a new Band name of up to two characters, then select the Tick icon to save the change.
Select the Bin icon to delete a Band.
A warning message is displayed before the band is deleted.
Select Confirm to proceed.
Select the three-dot menu within a band to access additional actions.
Copy Band Structure
Select Copy Band Structure to copy the existing block structure into other available Bands within the selected Year Group. Any existing blocks within the destination Band are preserved.
Remove all the Blocks from Year Group
Select Remove all the Blocks from Year Group to remove every block from all Bands within the selected Year Group.
Remove all the Blocks from Band
Select Remove all the Blocks from Band to remove every block from the selected Band only.
Restore Block Planning Version
Select Restore Block Planning Version to restore the block structure to the most recent version generated from the Block Planning page.
Note: This option is only available after Generate Blocks has been used on the Block Planning page.
A Total Period Count is displayed for each band in both the Curriculum Plan and Curriculum Plan Overview.
The period count represents the total number of periods across all blocks within the band.
The period count:
- Updates automatically when filters are applied.
- Updates automatically when blocks are added or removed.
- Counts Cross-Band Blocks separately within each Band.
- Is included when exporting from the Curriculum Plan Overview.
If the total period count exceeds the maximum permitted by the timetable period structure, the period count is displayed in red.
Hover over the period count icon to view the following warning message:
Blocks
Blocks define how subjects are organised and delivered within the timetable. They group subjects, classes and periods together to represent how lessons should be delivered, providing the foundation for building and scheduling the timetable.
Creating a Block
Select the +Block dropdown to create a new Block within the selected Year Group and Band.
Choose the required Block type to create an empty Block within the selected Band.
The Curriculum Plan supports four block types, each designed to support different curriculum and scheduling requirements. This section explains how to create and configure each of the following:
Simple Blocks
A Simple Block contains a single Subject and can include one or more Classes. All Classes within the Block are taught simultaneously for the same number of periods, making this block type ideal for core subjects and other subjects delivered in ability sets.
Create a Simple Block
Select Simple from the +Block dropdown.
Drag the required Subject from the left-hand panel into the block.
Note: The block name automatically updates to match the assigned subject.
Select the Expand Arrows to expand the Block.
Enter the required Number of Classes and Period Count, then select Apply.
The block is updated to display the specified number of Classes and Periods.
Linear Blocks
A Linear Block contains one or more subjects and can include one or more classes. Each class within the block contains the same subjects, but each Subject can have a different Period Count. Classes are scheduled independently, allowing different Subjects to be taught simultaneously. This provides greater flexibility when allocating staff, as each Class can study a different subject at the same time. This allows the same teacher to teach the same subject across multiple Classes without timetable conflicts.
Create a Linear Block
Select Linear from the + Block dropdown.
Drag the first required Subject from the left-hand panel into the block. Additional Subjects can then be dragged alongside the existing Subject(s) within the block.
Once all required Subjects have been added, select the Expand Arrows to expand the block.
Enter the required Number of Classes.
Note: The same number of classes applies to all subjects within the block.
Select each subject header to adjust the individual Period Count, then select Apply to update the block.
The block is updated to display the specified number of Classes and Periods.
Note: Use the arrows on either side of the subject headers to scroll through subjects that are not currently visible.
Individual subjects within a scheduled Linear block can be unscheduled without affecting the remaining subjects in the block.
Left-click the required subject and select Unschedule this subject.
The scheduling information is removed from the selected subject.
Option Blocks
An Option Block contains multiple subjects that are scheduled at the same time and share the same period count, allowing multiple option subjects to be delivered during the same timetable periods. Each subject within the block can contain one or more classes. Option Blocks are typically used for KS4 and Post-16 option pathways.
Create an Option Block
Select Option from the + Block dropdown.
Drag the first required Subject from the left-hand panel into the block.
Drag additional subjects below the existing subject(s) as required.
Note: By default, each subject is created with a single class. Additional classes can be added to individual subjects from the expanded block view. See Block Management for more information.
Once all required subjects have been added, select the Expand Arrows to expand the block.
Enter the required Period Count, then select Apply.
Note: All subjects within an Option Block share the same Period Count. Updating the Period Count automatically updates every subject within the block.
The block is updated to display the specified number of periods.
Complex Blocks
A Complex Block combines the flexibility of a Linear Block with the scheduling approach of an Option Block. Like a Linear Block, it supports multiple subjects and multiple classes. Like an Option Block, all classes within the block are scheduled together during the same timetable periods.
Unlike the other block types, each class within a Complex Block can contain a completely different combination of subjects. This makes Complex Blocks ideal for curriculum models where classes within the same block do not follow the same subject structure.
For example, in a KS4 Science model, some classes may study separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics, while others study Combined Science. A Complex Block allows these different subject combinations to be managed within a single block.
Create a Complex Block
Select Complex from the + Block dropdown.
Note: Complex Blocks can also be created by transforming an existing Simple Block, Linear Block or Option Block. See Block Management for more information.
Drag the first subject for the first class from the left-hand panel into the block.
Drag additional subjects for the first class alongside the existing subject(s).
Drag the first subject for the next class below the first class.
Add any additional subjects alongside the existing subject(s). Repeat until all required classes and subjects have been added.
The block updates automatically to reflect the classes and periods created from the subjects that have been added.
Note:
- When multiple classes require the same subject, it is often quicker to create the first class only, then add the remaining classes from the expanded block view. This is covered in Block Management.
- Any periods within the block that do not have an assigned subject are automatically populated with the Free subject.
Swap Subjects
Subjects within an unscheduled Complex Block can be manually swapped without rebuilding the block.
Right-click both subjects, then left-click either subject, and select Swap Subjects.
Note: This option is available only for individual subjects within unscheduled Complex Blocks. The autoschedule process will automatically swap subjects during optimisation.
This section explains how to manage existing blocks within the Curriculum Plan and covers:
Block Overview
This section explains the information displayed on each block and the actions available from the collapsed block view.
Block Filters
- Blocks Type Filter – a multi-select dropdown used to display specific block types.
- Subject Filter – a multi-select dropdown used to display blocks containing selected subjects.
Note: All block types/subjects are selected by default. Filter selections remain applied when changing year groups or bands.
Block Information
Each block displays key information to help identify the block and monitor its structure.
Block Header
The header displays:
- Block Type badge – Indicates the block type (Simple, Linear, Option or Complex).
- Block Code – A unique three-character identifier for the block.
- Block Actions – Access additional actions using the three-dot menu.
- Expand Arrows – Opens the expanded block view to manage the block in more detail.
Block Details
The centre of the block displays:
- Block Name – The name of the block.
- For Simple Blocks, the block name automatically updates to match the assigned subject.
- Period Count – The total number of periods assigned to the block.
- Subject Code – The subject or subjects contained within the block.
Class Information
The lower section of the block displays:
- The number of single and double periods.
- The class number.
- Placeholders for assigned staff and rooms.
Block Actions
Select the three-dot menu on a block to access additional actions.
Note: These actions are available from both the collapsed and expanded block views.
Copy Block
Copies the block into the same or another band.
Note: When copied, the new block is named: Copy of Block (Block Code/1..)
Edit Classcodes
Opens the Edit Classcodes window for the selected block.
See Class Name Definitions later in this section for more information.
Delete Block
Deletes the selected block.
Note: A confirmation message is displayed before the block is removed.
Transform Block
Transforms the selected block into another block type.
- Simple Blocks can be transformed into any other block type.
- Linear Blocks can be transformed into Complex Blocks.
- Option Blocks can be transformed into Complex Blocks.
Unschedule Block
Removes all scheduled sessions for the selected block from the Scheduling page.
Note: This option is unavailable until the block has been scheduled.
Spread to Bands
Creates a Cross Band Block, allowing the block to span multiple bands.
A Cross Band Block is identified by a green X displayed on the block.
This option is unavailable if:
- The block already spans every band within the year group
- The year group contains only one band
Split to Bands
Available only for Cross Band Blocks.
Creates a copy of the block in each band and removes the Cross Band relationship.
Link Blocks
Links blocks so they can be scheduled simultaneously.
Note: Linear Blocks cannot be linked. If a scheduled block is linked, the block will be unscheduled and its existing scheduling information will be removed.
For detailed steps, see Link Blocks.
Unlink Blocks
Removes an existing block link.
Any scheduled sessions remain in place.
Expanded Block View
The Expanded Block View provides additional functionality for managing the contents of a block.
This section covers:
Edit Block Details
Edit Block Code or Block Name
Double-click the Block Code or Block Name.
Enter the required value and select the Tick icon to save the changes.
Note: Updating the Block Code automatically updates any Class Codes that use it.
Exception: Manually edited Class Codes are not updated.
Edit Number of Classes and Periods
Update the Number of Classes and/or Period Count, then select Apply.
Note: Increasing the Period Count of a scheduled Linear or Option Block creates an additional unscheduled period.
Manage Periods
Periods within an expanded block can be adjusted to support timetable requirements, including adding, removing, unscheduling and changing the structure of existing periods.
Add a Period to a Subject
Left-click a class period within the block, then choose Add a period to this subject.
An additional period is added for the selected subject.
Delete a Period from a Subject
Right-click to select one or more period headers, then left-click and choose Delete selected period(s) from this subject.
The selected periods are removed from the subject within the block.
To delete all periods of a subject within a Linear, Option or Complex block, left-click the required subject, then select Delete this subject.
The subject and all associated periods are removed from the block.
Unschedule a Period
Left-click the required period header, then choose Unschedule this Period.
The scheduling information is removed from the selected period, but the period remains within the block.
Combine Single Periods into a Double
Two adjacent single periods for the same subject can be combined into a double period.
Right-click to select both periods, then left-click to select Combine Selected Sessions into Double.
Note: If the original sessions were not scheduled consecutively, the new double period becomes unscheduled.
Split Selected Session
A double period can be split into two single periods while retaining scheduling information.
Right-click both halves of the double period, then left-click to select Split selected session.
Manage Classes
Classes within an expanded block can be added, removed and adjusted to support changes to the block structure.
Add Classes
Additional classes can be added from the expanded block view.
Select the three-dot menu on a class row, then select Add class(es).
Note: For Simple, Option and Complex Blocks, new classes automatically inherit the scheduling information of existing classes within the same period.
For Linear Blocks, new classes do not inherit scheduling information and will be unscheduled when added.
Remove a Class
Select the three-dot menu on the required class row, then select Remove class.
The selected class is removed from the block.
Unschedule Classes
Select the three-dot menu on the required class row, then select Unschedule these sessions.
The scheduling information is removed from all sessions within the selected class.
Note: This option is available for Linear Blocks only.
Managing Class Codes
Class Codes are generated using the Class Name Definition setting, which is accessed from the Settings button at the top of the Curriculum Plan. Once generated, Class Codes can be edited from within the Curriculum Plan using the Edit Classcodes option, available from the three-dot menu on a block or individual class.
This section covers:
Configure Class Name Definition
Select the Settings button in the top-right corner of the page, then select Class Name Definition.
Select the required Year Group from the dropdown.
Note: The page defaults to the Year Group currently selected in the Curriculum Plan page.
Choose whether a Subject is displayed using Short Code or Full Name.
Choose how Class Numbers are generated.
- 1-2 / 1-2 – Class numbering restarts for each Subject within a block.
- 1-2 / 3-4 – Class numbering continues across all Subjects within a block.
Drag the required fields from the Core Items, Optional Items and Optional Separators panels into the Class Definition area to build the required Class Code format.
The Class Name Example updates automatically as changes are made.
Select Check to validate the class name and check that the combination does not create duplicate names.
Note: If duplicate class codes are detected, amend the class name definition before continuing.
Once all required Year Groups have been updated, select Save & Close.
Copy Class Name Definition
Once a Class Name Definition has been created for a Year Group, it can be copied to one or more additional Year Groups.
Select the Year Group containing the required Class Name Definition, then select Copy Settings to.
Choose the required Year Group, or select All Year Groups.
Note: If the Class Name Definition has not been saved, a warning message is displayed.
Select Proceed to save the changes and continue copying the settings.
The Class Name Definition is copied and applied to the selected Year Groups.
Edit Classcodes
The Edit Classcodes option allows generated class codes to be amended without changing the class name definition. This is useful where individual classes, subjects or blocks require class codes that differ from the standard naming convention.
Edit Classcodes can be opened from the three-dot menu on:
- An individual class
- A block
- A subject header
The Band, Class Number and Free Text fields can be edited to create a Class Code that differs from the standard Class Name Definition.
Update an Individual Classcode
Expand the required Block, select the three-dot menu on the required class, then select Edit Classcodes. The Edit Classcodes window displays every Class within the selected Block.
The Edit Classcodes window displays the individual class within the selected block.
Double-click the required cell, enter the new value, then press Enter, press Tab, or select outside the cell to save the change.
A confirmation message is displayed once the update has been saved.
Update Class Codes for a Block
Select the three-dot menu on a collapsed or expanded block, then select Edit Classcodes.
The Edit Classcodes window displays every class within the selected block.
Edit individual Class Codes as required, or use Bulk Update to update multiple Class Codes. See Update Multiple Class Codes later in this section.
Update Class Codes for a Subject
Left-click the required Subject header, then select Edit Classcodes.
The Edit Classcodes window displays every class for the selected subject.
Update Multiple Class Codes
The Bulk Update option applies the same value to multiple rows, removing the need to edit each class individually.
Right-click to select either:
- Individual cells within the same column
- A column heading to select the entire column
Select Bulk Update, enter the required value, then select Save.
The selected Class Codes are updated.
Tip: Left-click any selected cell to clear the current selection.
Reset Class Codes to Default
The Reset to Default option restores edited Class Codes to the values generated by the current Class Name Definition.
Right-click to select either:
- Individual cells within the same column
- A column heading to select the entire column
Select Reset to Default, and the selected Class Codes are restored to their default values.
A confirmation message is displayed once the reset has completed successfully.
Link Blocks
Link Blocks allows unscheduled blocks to be linked so they can be scheduled simultaneously.
Blocks can be linked:
- Across different bands within the same year group
- Across different year groups
Note: Linear Blocks cannot be linked. If a block is already scheduled, linking it will unschedule the block.
Use the dropdowns to select the Year Group, Band and Block to link, then select Link Blocks.
The Match Classes window displays the periods for both blocks so they can be aligned before creating the link.
- Block 1 periods are displayed at the top.
- Block 2 periods are displayed below.
- Any periods from Block 2 that are not included in the link are displayed in the Drag excluded periods here area.
Drag and drop periods to match the required structure, then select Create Link.
Each period in Block 1 displays a feedback indicator:
Green Tick
Periods are matched correctly.
- Single periods are matched with single periods.
- Double periods are matched with either:
- One double period
- Two single periods
Red Cross
Double periods do not overlap correctly and only partially match.
Blank
No matching period has been assigned.
Periods within either block can be rearranged using drag and drop.
Scheduling Linked Blocks
Once blocks are linked:
- Linked sessions are scheduled to the same periods when one block is scheduled.
- Removing a scheduled period from one block also removes the linked period from the other block.
- Linked blocks are identified by a Link icon.
Tip: Hover over the Link icon to view the linked block’s code and name.
Link Periods
Link Periods allows two or more consecutive periods within a block to be linked together so they are scheduled at the same time.
It can be used where more than a standard double session is required or where sessions need to be scheduled across non-teaching time, such as breaks or lunch periods. Unlike standard double sessions, linked periods can be configured to span non-teaching time.
Note: Link periods is supported by Simple, Linear and Option blocks only.
This section covers:
Link Periods Configuration
The Schedule Linked Periods across Non-Teaching Time setting controls whether linked periods can be scheduled across non-teaching time, such as breaks or lunch periods.
To access the setting, select Settings from the top-right corner of the page, then select Schedule Linked Periods across Non-Teaching Time.
When Enabled
Linked periods can be scheduled across non-teaching time.
Note: This applies to both manual and auto scheduling.
When Disabled
Linked periods can only be scheduled in consecutive teaching periods.
Note: An error message is displayed if linked periods are manually scheduled across non-teaching time.
Important: Configure this setting before scheduling linked periods. If the setting is disabled after scheduling, all scheduled linked periods will be removed. The periods will remain linked within the Curriculum Plan.
Creating Linked Periods
Expand the required block and right-click to select two or more consecutive periods.
Left-click then select Link Period(s).
The selected periods are linked together and displayed as a linked group within the block, as shown in the screenshot below.
Linking Rules
- Only unscheduled, consecutive periods can be linked.
- Periods cannot be linked more than once.
- If one period within a double session is selected, the entire double session is included automatically.
- Where multiple linked groups exist within the same block, each linked group is assigned a number (for example 1, 2, 3) to help distinguish between them.
Removing Linked Periods
Linked periods can be removed individually or as a complete linked group.
Unlinking Individual Periods
Left-click the required linked period, then select Unlink Period(s).
To unlink two or more periods, right-click the required linked periods, left-click any of the selected periods, then select Unlink Period(s).
Removing a Linked Group
To remove all links within a group, left-click any period within the linked group, then select Remove all Links.
Unlinking Rules
- Only consecutive linked periods from the same group can be unlinked.
- Links can only be removed from either end of a group. Links cannot be removed from the middle of the sequence.
- If one period from a linked double session is selected, both links are removed automatically.
- For linked groups containing more than two periods, only the edge periods can be unlinked individually.
This section explains how to allocate and manage staff and room assignments for classes within the Curriculum Plan and covers:
Assigning Staff and Rooms
Staff and rooms can be assigned from both the collapsed block view and the expanded block view by dragging and dropping them from the left-hand panel.
Collapsed Block View
Drag the required staff member or room onto the required class.
The allocation is applied to every period within the class that does not already have an assignment.
Note: Where the Free subject has been used within a block, it is excluded from bulk staff and room assignments.
Expanded Block View
The expanded block view allows staff and rooms to be assigned to either individual periods or all periods within a class.
Before assigning staff and rooms, select the Staff or Room icon for the required period to filter the left-hand panel. Available staff or rooms for the selected period are displayed, prioritising resources related to the subject.
To assign a staff member or room to individual periods, drag it onto the required period(s).
To assign a staff member or room to every period within a class, drag it onto the class header.
The allocation is applied to every period within the class that does not already have an assignment.
Note: Where the Free subject has been used within a block, it is excluded from bulk staff and room assignments.
Add Additional Staff
Additional staff can be assigned where more than one member of staff is required for a class, such as providing classroom support or team teaching.
From either the collapsed or expanded block view, hold the Shift key while dragging the required staff member onto the required period or class header.
The staff member is added as Additional Staff and is identified by a + symbol.
Removing Staff and Rooms
Staff and room allocations can be removed from an individual period or from all periods within a class.
Remove from an Individual Period
Left-click the required period then select Remove from this session.
Select one of the following:
- Main Staff and Room
- Main Staff Only
- Additional Staff
- Room Only
A confirmation message is displayed once the selected allocation has been removed successfully.
Note: To remove all staff, room and scheduling allocations from the selected period, select Clear this session.
Remove from All Periods of a Class
To remove staff and room allocations from all periods within a class, select the three-dot menu on the class row, then select the required removal option.
Swapping Staff and Room Allocations
Staff and room allocations can be swapped either between individual periods or across entire classes.
Swap Allocations Between Classes
Expand the required block, right-click the first class header, then right-click the second class header.
Note: The selected class headers are highlighted with a blue border.
Left-click either class header, then select one of the following:
- Swap main staff
- Swap room
- Swap additional staff
- Swap all allocations
Note: If the swap creates timetable conflicts, a warning message is displayed.
The selected allocation is swapped across the entire class.
Swap Allocations Between Periods
Right-click the two required periods.
Note: The selected sessions are highlighted with a blue border.
Left-click either selected session, then select one of the following:
- Swap main staff
- Swap additional staff
- Swap room
- Swap all allocations
Note: If the swap creates timetable conflicts, a warning message is displayed.
Swap Restrictions
A swap cannot be completed if:
- A staff member or room would be moved into a period where a Non-Contact Code is assigned.
- A staff member would become both Main Staff and Additional Staff within the same session.
Staff and Room Allocation
Staff and rooms can be assigned from both the collapsed block view and the expanded block view by dragging and dropping them from the left-hand panel.
Collapsed Block View
Drag the required staff member or room onto the required class.
The allocation is applied to every period within the class that does not already have an assignment.
Note: Where the Free subject has been used within a block, it is excluded from bulk staff and room assignments.
Expanded Block View
The expanded block view allows staff and rooms to be assigned to either individual periods or all periods within a class.
Before assigning staff and rooms, select the Staff or Room icon for the required period to filter the left-hand panel. Available staff or rooms for the selected period are displayed, prioritising resources related to the subject.
To assign a staff member or room to individual periods, drag it onto the required period(s).
To assign a staff member or room to every period within a class, drag it onto the class header.
The allocation is applied to every period within the class that does not already have an assignment.
Note: Where the Free subject has been used within a block, it is excluded from bulk staff and room assignments.
Add Additional Staff
Additional staff can be assigned where more than one member of staff is required for a class, such as providing classroom support or team teaching.
From either the collapsed or expanded block view, hold the Shift key while dragging the required staff member onto the required period or class header.
The staff member is added as Additional Staff and is identified by a + symbol.
Staff and room allocations can be removed from an individual period or from all periods within a class.
Remove from an Individual Period
Left-click the required period then select Remove from this session.
Select one of the following:
- Main Staff and Room
- Main Staff Only
- Additional Staff
- Room Only
A confirmation message is displayed once the selected allocation has been removed successfully.
Note: To remove all staff, room and scheduling allocations from the selected period, select Clear this session.
Remove from All Periods of a Class
To remove staff and room allocations from all periods within a class, select the three-dot menu on the class row, then select the required removal option.
Staff and room allocations can be swapped either between individual periods or across entire classes.
Swap Allocations Between Classes
Expand the required block, right-click the first class header, then right-click the second class header.
Note: The selected class headers are highlighted with a blue border.
Left-click either class header, then select one of the following:
- Swap main staff
- Swap room
- Swap additional staff
- Swap all allocations
Note: If the swap creates timetable conflicts, a warning message is displayed.
The selected allocation is swapped across the entire class.
Swap Allocations Between Periods
Right-click the two required periods.
Note: The selected sessions are highlighted with a blue border.
Left-click either selected session, then select one of the following:
- Swap main staff
- Swap additional staff
- Swap room
- Swap all allocations
Note: If the swap creates timetable conflicts, a warning message is displayed.
Swap Restrictions
A swap cannot be completed if:
- A staff member or room would be moved into a period where a Non-Contact Code is assigned.
- A staff member would become both Main Staff and Additional Staff within the same session.
The Auto Assign feature automatically allocates staff and/or rooms to classes within the Curriculum Plan based on the relationships configured between staff, rooms and subjects. If sessions have already been scheduled, allocations are also applied to the Scheduling page.
Note: For best results, ensure staff and room relationships have been configured on the Relationships page and Contact Time has been assigned where applicable before running Auto Assign.
This section covers:
Using Auto Assign
Navigate to Actions > Auto Assign.
The Auto Assign window is displayed.
Select the required Year Groups for the Auto Assign process, or choose Select All.
Select the required option from the Staff/Room dropdown to choose whether Auto Assign allocates staff, rooms, or both:
- Staff Only
- Room Only
- Staff and Room
Select how subjects are displayed for selection from the Subject/Department dropdown:
- Subject – displays individual subjects.
- Department – displays subjects grouped by department.
Note: Use the Search field to locate specific subjects or departments.
Select the required subjects or departments and select Auto Assign.
Tip: Use Select All to select all available subjects or departments.
If relationships between the selected staff/rooms and subjects have not been configured on the Relationships page, a warning message is displayed.
Select Continue to proceed.
Note: Auto Assign may not complete successfully if the required relationships are not configured.
Removing Auto Assignments
Use Remove Assignments to remove existing staff and room allocations.
Note: Remove Assignments removes all selectedstaff and/or room allocations, regardless of whether they were added using Auto Assign or manually allocated within the Curriculum Plan.
Select the required Year Groups, Staff/Room option and Subjects, then select Remove Assignments.
A warning message is displayed, select Proceed to continue.
The selected staff and/or room allocations are removed.
Auto Assign Rules
Auto Assign uses the relationships configured between staff, rooms and subjects to determine the most appropriate allocations for each class.
During the allocation process, Auto Assign:
- Uses Contact Time when determining staff allocations.
- Attempts to allocate a single member of staff and room to each class where possible.
- Allocates additional staff or rooms where required.
- Respects Non-Contact Codes, timetable availability and existing teaching periods.
- Leaves classes unassigned where a suitable allocation cannot be made.
For detailed information about the order in which staff and rooms are allocated, refer to Appendix A – Auto Assign Allocation Logic.
The Check for Missing Staff and Rooms feature identifies classes with missing staff or room allocations and provides direct access to the relevant location for completing the allocation.
Navigate to Actions > Check for Missing Staff and Rooms.
This section covers:
Filtering
The page defaults to the year group currently selected in the Curriculum Plan.
Use the All Year Groups toggle to display missing allocations for every year group and use the Search field to locate a specific class.
Select the Staff or Rooms tab in the top-right corner of the page to switch between missing staff and missing room allocations.
Select a column heading to sort the results in ascending or descending order and use the Filter icon to refine the results displayed.
View Missing Allocations
Select the View (eye) icon in the Actions column to access the relevant location for completing the allocation.
If the period is unscheduled, the corresponding expanded block opens within the Curriculum Plan.
Note: If the period is scheduled, the corresponding block opens on the Scheduling page.
Export Missing Allocations
Select Export to export the current list of missing staff or room allocations to Excel.
An Excel file is generated and downloaded to the default Downloads location on the local machine.
Curriculum Plan Actions
The Overview action opens a simplified, read-only view of the Curriculum Plan. This provides a summary of the curriculum structure and allows period totals and allocations to be reviewed without making changes.
Navigate to Actions > Overview.
The Curriculum Plan Overview window opens.
Filtering
Use the Year Groups, Departments and Subjects dropdowns to filter the information displayed within the Overview.
Select the required values, then select Apply.
The Overview updates to display the filtered results.
Note: The Departments dropdown displays blocks containing at least one subject from the selected department(s). The Subjects dropdown displays blocks containing at least one selected subject.
Display and Export
Select the Staff, Room or Subject icons to change the information displayed within the Overview.
A Total Period Count is displayed for each band and updates automatically as changes are made or filters are applied.
Note: If the total exceeds the permitted maximum, it is displayed in red.
Select Export as Grid to export the current Overview to Microsoft Excel.
The exported file is saved to the default Downloads location on the local machine.
Select Back to Curriculum Plan to close the Overview and return to the Curriculum Plan.
The Clear Curriculum Plan feature permanently removes all blocks and additional bands from every year group within the Curriculum Plan.
Note: The Block Planning page is not affected.
Navigate to Actions > Clear Curriculum Plan.
Tip: Create a backup before clearing the Curriculum Plan.
The confirmation window is displayed.
Review the warning message, then select Confirm to proceed.
All blocks and additional bands are removed from the Curriculum Plan.
Note: If the blocks were originally created using Generate Blocks on the Block Planning page, they can be regenerated after clearing the Curriculum Plan.
The Import Options feature imports timetable patterns from the Options module and creates Option Blocks within the Curriculum Plan.
This feature is available for Year 9, Year 10 and Year 12.
Note: The timetable pattern must be marked Set as Final before it can be imported.
Import Option Blocks
Select the required year group within the Curriculum Plan and navigate to Actions > Import Options.
The confirmation window is displayed.
Review the warning message, then select Continue to proceed.
The Curriculum Plan is updated with the imported Option Blocks.
Import Rules
- Available for Year 9, Year 10 and Year 12 only.
- Imports the latest timetable pattern marked Set as Final.
- Existing imported Option Blocks are replaced, whilst manually created Option Blocks are retained.
- Timetable Pattern year groups are imported one year ahead (for example, Pattern Year Group 8 is imported into Curriculum Plan Year Group 9).
- Class names are imported from the timetable pattern and can be edited after the import.
Note: If no timetable pattern has been marked Set as Final, the import cannot be completed.
Running Import Options again removes previously imported Option Blocks and replaces them with the latest timetable pattern.
Re-importing also removes:
- Staff assignments.
- Room assignments.
- Scheduling information.
- Changes made to previously imported blocks.
Note: Blocks containing subjects that are not active within the project are not imported.
Appendix
This appendix describes the allocation priorities used by Auto Assign when assigning staff and rooms within the Curriculum Plan.
Refer to this appendix to understand how Auto Assign determines allocations where multiple suitable staff members or rooms are available.
This appendix covers:
Staff Assignment Priorities
Auto Assign attempts to allocate staff to all periods within each class while:
- Using a single member of staff where possible.
- Using no more than two members of staff per class.
- Assigning only staff with an appropriate Subject relationship.
Staff assignment is prioritised using:
- Staff–Subject Relationships
- Contact Time availability
- Total Contact Time
- Subject Contact Time
- Year Group Contact Time
Standard Staff Assignment Priorities
Priority 1: One staff member with Total, Subject and Year Group Contact Time
- If one staff member can be assigned to all periods within the class, that staff member is selected.
- If multiple staff members meet the criteria, the staff member with the lowest Year Group Contact Time is selected.
- If tied, any suitable staff member may be selected.
Priority 2: Two staff members with Total, Subject and Year Group Contact Time
- If one staff member cannot be assigned to all periods within the class, Auto Assign considers two staff members who can collectively staff the class.
- The staff member with the highest available Year Group Contact Time is prioritised, with the second staff member assigned to the remaining periods.
- If multiple valid pairs exist, the pair with the lowest combined Year Group Contact Time is selected.
Priority 3: Two staff members with different Contact Time availability
- One staff member with Total, Subject and Year Group Contact Time.
- One staff member with Total and Subject Contact Time only.
- If a valid pair can staff all periods within the class, the allocation is applied.
- If multiple valid pairs exist, the pair where the staff member with Subject Contact Time only has the lowest hours is selected.
Priority 4: One staff member with Total and Subject Contact Time only
- If no staff members with Year Group Contact Time are available, Auto Assign considers staff members with Subject Contact Time only.
- If one staff member can be assigned to all periods within the class, that staff member is selected.
- If multiple staff members qualify, the staff member with the lowest Subject Contact Time is selected.
Priority 5: Two staff members with Total and Subject Contact Time only
- If two staff members are required to staff the class, the pair with the lowest combined Subject Contact Time are selected.
- If multiple valid pairs exist, any may be selected.
Note: If no combination of up to two staff members can staff all periods within the class, the class remains unassigned.
| Priority | No of Staff | Subject Relationship | Available Total CT | Available Subject CT | Available YG CT |
| 1 | 1 | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| 2 | 2 | Y | Y | Y | Y |
| 3 | 2 | Y | Y | Y | Only 1 Staff |
| 4 | 1 | Y | Y | Y | N |
| 5 | 2 | Y | Y | Y | N |
Additional Staff Assignment Priorities
When Use any staff with a subject relationship is selected, Auto Assign applies the following additional priorities if a suitable allocation cannot be made using priorities 1-5.
Priority 6: One staff member with Total Contact Time
- If one staff member can be assigned to all periods within the class, that staff member is selected.
- If multiple staff members qualify, the staff member with the lowest Total Contact Time is selected.
Priority 7: Two staff members with Total Contact Time
- If two staff members can collectively staff all periods within the class, the pair may be assigned.
- If multiple valid pairs exist, the pair with the lowest combined Total Contact Time is selected.
Note: If no combination of up to two staff members can staff all periods within the class, the class remains unassigned.
| Priority | No of Staff | Subject Relationship | Available Total CT | Available Subject CT | Available YG CT |
| 6 | 1 | Y | Y | N | N |
| 7 | 2 | Y | Y | N | N |
Note: Auto Assign respects Non-Contact Codes, existing scheduling and timetable availability when assigning staff and rooms.
Room Assignment Priorities
Auto Assign attempts to allocate a single room per class where possible.
Rooms are assigned using the following priority order:
Priority 1: Staff–Room Relationship
Auto Assign first attempts to assign a room that:
- Has a relationship with the staff member.
- Is available for the session.
Priority 2: Subject–Room Relationship
If no suitable room is available through a Staff–Room relationship, Auto Assign attempts to assign a room that:
- Has a relationship with the subject.
- Is available for the session.
Note:
- If a single room cannot be allocated for the class, additional rooms are assigned as required.
- Auto Assign respects Non-Contact Codes, existing scheduling and timetable availability when assigning staff and rooms.
Block Assignment Rules
Linear Blocks
- Different subjects within a Linear block require separate staff assignments.
- The same staff member can be assigned to multiple classes of the same subject where sessions do not conflict.
- A staff member can be assigned up to the available Period Count within the block.
Complex Blocks
- Where the subject structure allows, staff can be assigned to the same subject across different classes where sessions do not conflict.
- Complex blocks are processed after other block types.
Next Steps
Continue to Part 3: Scheduling & Reporting for guidance on the next stage of the wTimetable process.