We help universities transform their timetabling and space management

We give higher education heroes the data, tools and skills they need to pep up their timetabling processes, use precious space more effectively and – crucially – create better student experiences.

How? With training, consultancy, surveys and trained-and-ready-to-go staff. All delivered by a team that really cares about making the job easier. Essentially if you work in timetabling or space management, we’ll help you rock at what you do!

We get it, because we’ve done it ourselves

We're timetabling and space management geeks, with more than 75 years of collective experience. We know timetabling and space management are tough jobs – trying to keep everyone happy, constantly firefighting, not much support or training. It’s why we’re determined to help you become the timetabling legend or space management superstar you’ve always dreamed of being!

Okay, maybe we got carried away there. But you get the idea.

We’re here to help. Even if you’re not sure where to start or what support you need, get in touch. We love to chat, and we’re confident that we can help lighten the load. How’s that for a promise?

Let’s talk.

We started out as Education Space Consultancy (ESC) back in 2014. Initially we focused on helping universities use their space more effectively, using data to drive decisions and ultimately helping universities save money without affecting the student experience.

Escentral was born when the pandemic gave us the push we needed to lean into the training side of things. Suddenly we had the space and time to create genuinely amazing courses and communities. We saw a way to help make a tough job easier – and help timetablers and space managers get the respect and recognition they deserve.

As that side of the business rocketed, and as students began to return to campus, we realised that being able to offer both consultancy and training was actually our superpower, and so ESC and Escentral merged.

Since we started, we’ve trained and supported teams from more than 70 institutions on everything from data analysis to how to get your academics on board (yes, it’s possible!)

First things first, we won’t tell you how to do your job. Each university is different, so instead of squeezing you into a one-size-fits-all solution, we take a more supportive and personalised approach.

This is why we start everything with a chat. Because you know your team, and your university, best. You understand the nuance and the specific needs. And you know where you’re stuck.

When we understand what you’re up against, we bring the experience, expertise and fresh (and unbiased) perspective to help you see your blind spots, join the dots, side step resistance to change and actually get things done. Happier academics. Happier students. Happier team. And happier you.

For too long, and in too many universities, timetablers and space managers have been undervalued and unappreciated. So support, community and a sprinkling of fun underpin everything that we do.

Sure, we love a spreadsheet. Who doesn’t? Have you also noticed our love of nostalgic song lyrics? Timetabling and space management might be serious business, but it doesn’t mean we can’t have fun at the same time. Even the toughest timetablers need to hang out with people who just get it.

Want to find your crew? Join us in the Timetabling Academy or come to one of our meetups.

We help universities transform their timetabling and space management

We get it, because we’ve done it ourselves

How it all started

We (stop) collaborate and listen

Community is the key (and the secret)

Get to know us better

Seen enough? Then let's talk