How do I word this part time request?

[WindFlower92]

So I've asked to go back part time after maternity leave. I've been sent the form, and there's a box for me to fill in to 'explain the impact of this request on your department'. There's a second box asking how to 'resolve this impact'. What kind of things should I be putting there? I can only think of negative (other members of department are also part time but on different days so shared classes); should I be putting this kind of thing or should I think of positive stuff? My mind's gone completely blank here and I don't want to actively give them reasons to say no! Secondary, by the way.

Put the practical difficulties thos will cause and how you suggest these are resolved.
If there are any positives they are definitely worth a mention

I'd be factual with a positive spin. E.g. The impact on my department would be that a .5 post would become available. This could give the school the chance to employ an NQT at a lower rate, thus helping the school's tight budget. Or to find a teacher with specialist interest or knowledge in X to complement my special interest and knowledge in Y, thus strengthening our department overall. In addition, I will be more refreshed and less stressed working PT which will benefit pupils and fellow staff members alike.

Something like that?

Love that @newdeer, thanks!

So it's not presumptuous to say they could hire someone else as well?

What are the benefits for the school? Eg if it's a job share, more expertise and skills brought to the department. Sell them this.

Give examples of how you will manage communication with a jobshare partner if you have one.

If you can be flexible with working days and timetable, sell this.

Good luck!

Better work life balance gives more enthusiasm and energy

It specifically mentions to impact on employer and colleagues though..I'd feel a bit cheeky saying how I'd benefit! I'm thinking..3 other members of department are part time so could be used to balance their timetables, allows space to employ an NQT or other specialist part time..I just really can't think of anything else other than it inconveniences everyone else! I don't think I want to say anything about more time to do things like marking (English teacher) because it's part time on the basis that I'll be providing childcare to DD on the other days. Would those two things be okay or should I add any more?

Yes definitely don’t imply in any way that you’ll be working on your days off.

‘Retaining a known and experienced teacher’ is a benefit to your department.

Annoys me when people see part timers as nothing but a drain. If schools weren’t so awkward about part time teaching we wouldn’t be losing so many teachers.

However you could talk about flexibility (if you will have any).
I have a PT member of staff and she works on the days she's needed. We're very lucky to have that flexibility from her