Does this sound like I’m being manipulative/ threatening?

[parrotonmyshoulder]

I am very happy in my current teaching post. It changes quite significantly year to year in our school though, with lots of staff and pupil movement (all age school).
I am now in an age group (11-16) that I want to stay in. All my recent training, networking, action research etc has been with this age group and it’s where I want to make the rest of my career.
HT has implied that I’ll need to take a primary class next year. I have made my wishes clear but obviously can’t refuse to do what she asks.

I have seen a job that I would want to apply for in another school IF I am going to end up in a role I don’t want in the current school. Closing date fairly soon and HT doesn’t usually organise next year’s classes until after May resignation date.

Is it possible to have this conversation without it sounding like I’m offering an ultimatum, or is that actually what I’m doing?

It sounds like this isn't the school for you. Presumably the HT needs flexibility in the staff which is no longer what you want. Even if you were given secondary next year, you'll have no guarantee that you'll get it again the following year. I really wouldn't embarrass yourself or your HT by broaching the subject again. Go for that other job!

I would do the same as you.

In a lot of schools, a large number of teachers move to something better after a couple of years. They may be happy, but to get promotion or wider experience, they leave. If they were offered a TLR, they might stay - that's not manipulative. It's giving school a chance to keep them.

Presumably, you would stay if assured you would have KS3/4, and leave if you were offered what you want elsewhere. Nothing wrong with that.

Well, yes, it kind of is an ultimatum but honest - personally, I would apply for the other job and then if asked by ht why you are looking to move if it is a sidestep not promotion, then explain you are happier with keystages 3 and 4 rather than 1 and 2.

Thanks, mixed opinions then, as I expected.

I think I am in the right school, if I can stay where I want to be. I’d put up with it, even if I get moved, if I don’t find something equally good elsewhere. I don’t know if all the effort of applying for new jobs is worth it! So maybe I’m not as bothered as I think I am.