New Subject Time Allocations for the Primary Curriculum Framework (PCF)

Updated 6th May 2026

The Primary Curriculum Framework (PCF) was published in 2023, and it marks a significant shift in how time is allocated to subjects in Irish primary schools. With a stronger emphasis on flexibility, integration, and play-based learning, the new time allocations offer teachers greater autonomy in structuring their schedules while ensuring a balanced curriculum.

PCF Time Allocations

Under the new framework teachers have more flexibility to adapt their timetables to best suit their students’ needs. The PCF introduces Stage 1 (Junior & Senior Infants), Stage 2 (First & Second Class), Stage 3 (Third & Fourth Class), and Stage 4 (Fifth & Sixth Class), with updated suggested time allocations.

Some of the main points to note include:

• Curricular Areas Instead of Individual Subjects – Rather than prescribing set times for each subject, the PCF groups subjects under broader areas such as Wellbeing, STEM, Arts Education, and Social & Environmental Education.

• Greater Flexibility – Schools have the freedom to distribute time across subjects within curricular areas, allowing for more meaningful, integrated learning experiences.

• A Focus on Play and Wellbeing – Play-based and experiential learning is recognised as a key pedagogical approach, extending beyond the infant years into all stages of primary education.

You can see the allocations from pages 38 and 39 of the PCF below:

What Does This Mean for Teachers?

• More Professional Judgment – Teachers now have greater control over how they allocate time within curricular areas, allowing them to tailor learning experiences to their students.

• Easier Cross-Curricular Integration – Subjects no longer need to be taught in isolation, making it easier to link learning across different areas.

• Play-Based Learning – Play is not just for infants; the PCF highlights that playful and engaging learning should continue throughout all primary classes.

When Should Schools Start Using The Revised Time Allocations?

Primary Curriculum. Circular 0067/2025, states that “Since the launch of the framework in 2023, schools have had the flexibility to enact the suggested time allocations if they wished.” 

Circular 0052/2026, clarifies that “The new suggested time allocations outlined in the Primary Curriculum Framework (2023) should be implemented by all schools by the end of the first curriculum enactment cycle i.e. by the end of the 2027/2028 school year.”

Therefore the new time allocations are not required for the 2026/ 2027 school year, but they will be for the following one! That said, schools may choose to start exploring and experimenting with the new time allocations now if they wish. 

To help teachers navigate these changes, I have created a range of sample timetables that reflect the new PCF time allocations. These provide practical examples of how to structure your timetable while maintaining compliance with the new framework. 

Sample Timetables Aligned with the PCF

The sample timetables:

• Illustrate how curricular areas can be integrated into a balanced schedule.

• Include dedicated time for play and playful learning in all class levels.

• Offer different approaches—some with specific subject breakdowns and others using broader curricular areas for flexibility.

• Show how time can be blocked for special events, CLIL, and other whole-school activities while still meeting overall time requirements.

You can access the sample timetables for all class levels here. 

These timetables provide a practical guide for teachers looking to transition to the new curriculum structure with ease.

Final Thoughts

The new Primary Curriculum Framework represents an exciting opportunity for schools to rethink how learning is structured in the classroom. Using the sample timetables that I have created as a guide, teachers can ensure they are making the most of the increased flexibility while still meeting curriculum requirements!