Teachers and maternity leave

[ohthegoats]

I'm due on 28th September. First baby, no reason to think that it wouldn't be the average of 41+3 or whatever, and so far (only 18+5) I'm feeling tired but fine, going to the gym most days etc.

I've previously had a conversation with my boss where he agreed I would go back to work after the summer holidays, not in class, but doing a project that we've already agreed.

Today he announced that due to a new budget, he wants me to go off at the beginning of the summer holidays - still paid until August 31st, but not at work.

I'm pretty uncomfortable with potentially being off work for three months, both for my mental health, and also financially it could be difficult for us. He knows this, but budgets seem to have taken over his head. Understandably I guess, that's his job.

Part of me is thinking that maybe I won't be up for coming back - I'll be in a year 3/4 class with lots of TAs to manage, it's the beginning of the year, I'll have to set up a classroom over the summer (ladders etc). I know legally I can do what I like, but I'm now dithering.

If you are a teacher, and you were in my shoes, what would you do?

[icklekid]

Sounds like you've planned your pregnancy perfectly op! I would go back for the first week but we only have INSETs totally get the is it worth it if your going to be teaching? Worth pushing to ask about the project or if you could do cover?

I'm going at 37 weeks, 3 weeks after may half term so I can submit ks1 data- am assistant head so basically focusing on my class/supporting yr2 classes until half term then doing hand over final 3 weeks...if I make it!!! Coming up quickly now!