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Original poster

Is this cheeky to ask in new job?

80 replies

Cheepcheepchirp · 07/07/2025 20:08

Nearly 3 months into a new job. I’ve almost completed my training and so far feedback has been very positive. I’ve been a SAHM for last decade and I’m dreading school holidays and not being able to spend it with my kids. I didn’t realise they’d still want to spend as much time with me!
I do 3x 8-5.30, plus 6 hours (when kids are in bed). I’ve planned eldest DC doing their own thing and youngest in holiday club those 3 days but I’d much rather work 2 long days, just for the summer hols.
I would take it unpaid (prefer not) and only have a couple days AL left.
Am I cheeky to ask and if not, what can I suggest?

OP posts:
edwinbear · 07/07/2025 20:15

Honestly, I’d be very unimpressed if you were my direct report. At 3 months you’re still very much being assessed - are you still on probation? I’d rather not work during school holidays too (I’m FT), I’m sure most parents find school holidays hard, but it’s what you sign up to unfortunately. Christmas is hard as a working parent too as inevitably, there will be some days you’ll have to work, when you’d rather not.

Mrsttcno1 · 07/07/2025 20:14

Byebyechicken · 07/07/2025 20:11

Depends what the job is and how it would impact on your colleagues.

This.

It simply wouldn’t be workable if you had my job for example, it would place too much pressure on colleagues to pick up your slack and the company wouldn’t allow it. But if you have a job where it wouldn’t impact business or colleagues then you might get away with asking if you offered to do it unpaid to make up for the inconvenience.

BringYourOwnBullshit · 07/07/2025 20:13

After 3 years I would ask, after 3 months I wouldn't to be honest. Maybe sit this one through and wait until the next summer holidays.

Byebyechicken · 07/07/2025 20:11

Depends what the job is and how it would impact on your colleagues.

rubyslippers · 07/07/2025 20:10

you can ask but they’ve every right to say no
as a working parent you need to sort childcare in advance and with the agreement of your employer
do you have a partner?
you’re already working flexibly