To email headteacher about this

[schoolgrinch]

DS is in year one, at a 2 form state primary. It is very well regarded, DS is doing brilliantly, and generally we are very happy.

However.

My child is in Class X. They have had two part time teachers (Teacher A Monday-Wednesday and Teacher B Wednesday-Friday) for year 1.

Teacher A announced her pregnancy early in 2024 and parents were told that she was planning to go on maternity leave after May half term. An alternative teacher in the school would take over her days at this point, for term 6. About a month ago we were told that Teacher A was now starting maternity leave 2 weeks before May half term, and a different member of staff would cover these 2 weeks.

So in one year, the class will have had 4 different teachers,

In comparison, the other Year 1 class, Class Y, have had 1 teacher the whole year.

Now- this isn't anything against part time working, pregnancy rights etc etc. I have benefitted from both of these provisions myself.

However- WIBU to email the headteacher to ensure that it has been considered in terms of planning teacher allocations for next year, that Class X have had quite considerable disruption this year, and would benefit from an opportunity for more consistent teaching next year?

1. YANBU, totally reasonable to email
2. YANBY, but the headteacher will clearly be aware of this and will already have considered it
3. YABU (please give reason)

Leave the head to it. They aren't bloody stupid and know exactly what experience the children have had.

If you think the head is incapable of making such a decision without your amazing input, why send your child there?

Seriously, back off and let the head deal.

Of course the head has considered this. To email is just causing them more work. You’re being ridiculous.

your child is taught by humans. Sometimes the maternity leave has to happen earlier than planned. Be human in your response to it and let it go.

YABU.

Your ds is in Year 1. With respect, this will not affect his outcomes at the end of Key Stage 4.

Of course the head and SLT have discussed class arrangements!

That doesn’t sound bad at all. Two consistent teachers for most of the year. The other class in my DD’s year have had 8 different teachers this year! I fully expect they will get the better teacher next year.

You're being utterly ridiculous the head isn't an idiot

I understand your concerns, but sounds like is doing fine. And this ladt half term is often full of trips, sports day, end of year shows and not as much learning, so if had to happen anytime, then this is the best time.
They will consider this when allocating staff for year 2, I don't think you need to contact the headteacher

DD had 6 different teachers in Y1 for various reasons. She’s 15 now and fine. I really wouldn’t worry.

YABU. Dont be that parent.

Pretty pointless to send an email. You can't plan if a teacher isn't having a good pregnancy and needs to leave earlier on maternity leave. Plus next year will already be planned.

This

YABU

Please give the Head some credit. They will be fully aware of the situation. The children won’t be adversely affected by this.

You're being very OTT. A supply teacher for two weeks won't hurt your child's future prospects. Many children benefit from having two part time class teachers too due to differences in teaching style. Relax!

Well that was quick and unanimous: I respect the sanctity of AIBU and it is clear that I WBU to email the head, so I will not. Thanks all.

Consider a private school is the only other I can help you with

Have you really been unaware of what’s happening in schools over recent times. You’ve said you’re happy with the school, your son is doing well, so whatever do you need to email the head about. Unless it’s to thank her for ensuring that your child has consistently had a qualified teacher this year.

The class that has had a disrupted year are bound to get priority for a good/reliable teacher next year.

It is not always the case that part-timers necessarily mean a less satisfactory year than having a full-timer, by the way. Obviously the changes due to the maternity leave are frustrating, but I'm sure they will try and keep everything going smoothly.

Stop telling them how to do their job.

YABVVU

Do you want to be known as That parent?

Do not email. Its just interfering

YABU. The head knows far more about this situation than you do and is better placed to make staffing decisions. Don’t waste their time with a silly email.

Presumably the teacher had complications or a premature baby - how selfish of her! I can’t believe a parent would react like this thinking an email to the head is appropriate. Do you want the head to ban pregnancies with due dates outside the summer holidays?

i was actually concerned when dd3 had multiple teachers, no consistent supply in year 6 but actually she excelled academically. She wasn’t happy but then I realised it was because she was being pushed (she’s lazy 😂). She’s year 8 now and it is all good.

I hope OP’s darling child’s teacher next year doesn’t have the temerity to have a death in the family, a serious illness or a pregnancy - imagine! What an affront it would be. Teachers should be human in school holidays only.

Yes I'm sure the head will appreciate your assistance in pointing out how she should do her job.

Well, glad you have conceded so quickly, as YW clearly B ridiculous to think the Head needs a parent to tell them what staff a class has had.

<Wishes I could do an eyeroll emoji on my laptop >

@TeenLifeMum @mactire
100%
I have been that teacher. So glad I don't teach anymore