Teachers! I think I've decided to quit; would you give HOD a heads-up now?

[IHeartKingThistle]

Or will everyone just be horrible to me until July? Is it bad form to hand notice in at the end of May deadline if I could have given them more warning?

Background: I'm pt, been teaching 11 years, been there 2 years, want to take a couple of years out while DC are still little, don't love the school, Dept. not particularly understanding of work/life balance, been agonising over the decision to quit for ages but pretty much there now... (whole other thread!)

I just wondered what you'd do?

I am really glad I took a break from teaching while mine were were little to be honest. It's one of those jobs that take over your life even if you are part-time and I am really glad I had those years with my daughter. Time really does fly (its what everyone tells you but when you're in the middle of it you don't notice at all). There have been times its felt like a relentless round of nappies and feeding but there have been so many more good times. Looking back now my daughter is 3 and at pre-school I am so very pleased I was there in the early years, you don't get them back and now she is older she is off out and about and I wouldn't worry so much about being away from her.

Most of my friends from NCT/groups etc went back by a year, yet I found 1-2 so much more enjoyable than 0-1, and 2-3 has just been the best. As they get older you get to know their little ways, you get used to being a mum and I do love being out and about with her. I do still struggle with lack of energy BUT teaching isn't one of those jobs you can go to and just sit down, have a cup of tea and get a break from home, its just as manic as home is!

So yes, in my case I'm glad I've had a break from it. I do sometimes wonder if I'd trained as a psychologist (other career plan) I might have gone back to stay in the profession or simply as a break from the children. I am now, 3 years on, wondering about going back but I could, if we had the money, easily not if it meant I got to see nativity plays, help out at school, etc! It's taken me a while to get into being a SAHM and it can be tough and relentless but it can also build an amazing relationship with your child and I get such delight from being with her (on a good day!).

I had five years out and slotted straight back in doing part time as soon as my second child started school. I made sure I did just enough vounatry activities to make me sound proficient during the 'mothering time' on my CV. Tell the SLT of your intentions but not the children!

Tell them in May.