> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.supportwise.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Term structure

> Define the school-year planning windows used by timetable views.

Open **Settings → Term Structure** to add and maintain academic terms.

## Why terms matter

Term dates shape the planning weeks available to the timetable and keep date-based work aligned with the school year. Add the term structure before building long-running allocations.

## Add a term

<Steps>
  <Step title="Enter the term name">
    Use the school's familiar label, such as `Term 1`.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose the start date">
    Select the first date that should belong to the planning window.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose the end date">
    Select the final date for that term and save.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review the year overview">
    Check order, gaps and overlaps in the term list before building timetable data.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Editing guidance

* Correct term dates before adding large numbers of term-wide allocations.
* Avoid overlapping terms.
* Confirm pupil-free days and holidays with the school's chosen planning convention; SupportWise records the configured date boundaries but the appropriate local convention is a school decision.
* After changing dates, review timetable weeks that sit near the old boundary.

<Note>
  **Screenshot placeholder SW-011:** Term Configuration page containing four fictional terms and the edit form.
</Note>