A period where one might be spotted in school? (11)

I believe the answer is:

adolescence

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'a period' is the definition.
(adolescence is a kind of period)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for adolescence that I've seen before include "Puberty" , "Period of strong growth" , "Period of youth" , "Youthful period" , "Period before adulthood" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times and The Sunday Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.