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The staffroom

Whether you're a permanent teacher, supply teacher or student teacher, you'll find others in the same situation on our Staffroom forum.

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Original poster

In a pickle

6 replies

Gruffalo45 · 14/02/2020 16:24

I usually attend the class residential. I'm currently on maternity leave and due to go back at the start of the academic year. The residential is 3 weeks in to the new term. This means my only just 1 year old will have only been used to being left with her childminder for 3 weeks before I leave (feels like abandoning) her for a week. She would be being looked after by my partner and the childminder once I'm away.

I feel sick to my stomach at the thought of it but I also really feel like I should attend the residential so I don't let down my new class.

Has anyone got any advice? What would you do?

OP posts:

HumphreyCobblers · 14/02/2020 16:28

I would ask not to go, or go for one overnight and split it with someone else if possible.

Residentials are great but I wouldn’t leave my baby for four nights. Someone else could go for once, you sound as if you have done quite a few already.

phlebasconsidered · 14/02/2020 16:32

My school does not expect anyone with a child under 3 to attend a residentialand quite right too. Before you get into a tizz about it, ask about policy and past staff. Say you are unwilling. I was still breastfeeding - that alone is a reason!

Also, the times I did not attend my bond with my class did not alter. Just spend time asking them about it and finding out what they got from it afterwards. You can always spend some pshe time setting personal goals with them and discussing it on return. You do NOT need to be physically there and most reasonable schools will not expect it with a child so young.

eggofmantumbi · 14/02/2020 16:33

Yes I'd ask not to go. It's something that surely isn't contractually obliged and I think in your situation perfectly understandable.

RhymingRabbit3 · 14/02/2020 16:35

I definitely wouldnt go. Any line manager worth their salt wont expect you to. Your child and you are more important than letting down your new class - they will have a great time even if you're not there.

winewolfhowls · 14/02/2020 18:32

I wouldn't go either.

likeafishneedsabike · 14/02/2020 21:56

I don’t think anyone reasonable would expect the parents of a one year old to go away for a week. I mean some people in any profession might choose to do so, but it would be unreasonable to expect it.

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