How to make a classroom seating chart (free, editable)
Start from a seating chart template, move the desks to match your room, and type each student's name on a desk. Save it so you can swap names when seats change, and print a copy for your desk and the sub folder.
No account needed to edit.
Templates to start from
Seating chart
30 desks in rows facing the front, with a line on each desk for a name and a period box.
Classroom form (Letter)
Seating chart (elementary)
The same layout in brighter colours for younger classes.
Classroom form (Letter)
Attendance sheet
Names with columns to mark present, late and absent.
Classroom form (Letter)
Student information form
Collect contact and support details at the start of the year.
Classroom form (Letter)
Common classroom layouts
| Layout | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Rows facing the front | Tests, direct teaching, new classes | Less discussion; back rows drift |
| Pairs | Partner work and talk partners | Pick partners deliberately |
| Groups of 4–6 | Projects, stations, group discussion | Some students face away from the board |
| Horseshoe / U-shape | Whole-class discussion, seminars | Takes space; fewer desks fit |
| Mixed | Rows in the middle, a group table at the side | Keep walkways clear |
How to decide who sits where
- Seat students who need to see or hear well (glasses, hearing, attention needs) near the front and away from noisy spots. Follow any support plans.
- Put students who distract each other apart, with a calm student in between.
- Mix confidence and ability in groups so each table has someone who can get things started.
- Keep a clear path to the door and to any student who needs extra help often.
- Change seats every few weeks or each unit so students work with different classmates.
The first week
Many teachers start with alphabetical seating so they learn names quickly, then move to a planned chart once they know the class. Tell students on day one that seats will change, which makes the first move easier.
Keep it useful for others
- Put a copy in your substitute folder; a seating chart is the fastest way for a sub to learn names.
- Mark the front of the room and the door, so anyone can read the chart the right way round.
- Note students with allergies or medical plans only in the way your school allows; a seating chart is often left on the desk.
How to make it in CatalogProFlow
- Open the seating chartIt opens with 30 desks in five columns and six rows, a “Front of room” bar and a box for the class or period.
- Match your roomDrag desks into pairs, groups or a horseshoe; select a desk and delete it, or duplicate it to add more. Move the “Front of room” bar if the board is on another wall.
- Add namesAdd a text box on each desk and type the student's name, or print the chart and write names on the lines in pencil.
- Save one per classWith a free account, save the chart and duplicate it for each class or period, then change only the names.
- Print itDownload a PNG free with an account, or a print-ready PDF with Teacher Pro or a one-time $2.99 unlock for that design. You can also print straight from the PDF on any home or school printer.
Questions
How do I make a seating chart for my classroom?
Open the seating chart template, arrange the desks to match your room, type a name on each desk, then save and print it. Duplicate it for each class.
How often should I change the seating chart?
Every few weeks or at the start of each unit is common. Change it sooner if a pairing isn't working.
Can I make a seating chart for groups instead of rows?
Yes. Drag the desks into groups, pairs or a U-shape, delete the ones you don't need and duplicate to add more.
What size does the seating chart print at?
Classroom forms come in US Letter (8.5 × 11 in) and A4.
Related guides
- Substitute teacher lesson plans: a template and a checklistAn editable substitute plan template and a checklist of what to leave for a sub: schedule, seating chart, routines, lessons with materials, and emergency plans.
- How to make a reward chart that actually motivatesMake a reward chart for class or home: sticker charts, weekly goal charts, punch cards and team points, choosing goals and rewards, and templates.
- Classroom rules poster: how to write the rules, with templatesWrite classroom rules students remember and print a poster: how many rules, positive wording, examples by age, class agreements and poster sizes.