When completing your Project Plan and Budget form, you will need complete your Project Timeline. This will specify all the tasks that need to be done, when they will start and end, and who will be in charge.

The Project Planning and Budget Form guidance already indicates some of the tasks that you should include, like completing your risk assessment and project leader training, but you should think about what other tasks you need to complete that may be specific to your project.

It can help you to look at each of your activities, and break them down into as many component parts as possible. Also, include activities that you need to do regularly, like have team meetings or filling out volunteer rotas. Ultimately, the timeline should include all the tasks that are necessary to make your project a success!

Once you have this, you can arrange all of the tasks in chronological order, using the timeline grid in the form. Here's an example of what your timeline will look like once it's done:

Remember that tasks will invariably take longer than you originally plan, so schedule in adequate amounts of time! Also, try to account for busy periods (e.g. exams, essay deadlines) and periods when other people might not be around (e.g. holidays). You can mark in other events (e.g. term dates) in your chart as well to remind you. If your project will be working with schools, also take into account the school term dates.

Even though it might seem like an incredibly detailed account of your plan, completing your timeline is very important! It enables you to clarify your ideas, communicate them to other people, and ensure that everyone on your project is in agreement about what needs to be done.