Accepted job then changed ming

[Needmorewine]

Hi
I have accepted an NQT position due to start in Sept. However after lots of wobbles I have decided to take longer doing my PGCE (flexible one) and then look for a part time role instead, after my DD has completed her first term in reception (so ideally start something in Oct 2017 or Jan 2018). I accepted over email but have not signed the contract. Where do I stand ?! Can they sue me?! Thank you!!!

Actually you can be sued if you let a school down in this way. If they decide to pursue it you would be liable for any costs - readvertising for example. Schools don't normally do this so you may be lucky but I would imagine your name will be mud, unless you have a very good reason, of course. A verbal contract is as binding legally as a written one and you have emailed your acceptance so the school has proof. Personally if it was unavoidable to let them down I think you should have made an appointment with the head to ask face to face if they would release you. An email simply won't do in a situation like this. Check out the TES forums, there is a lot of advice on there.