I've no idea what to do next week

[CaptainCallisto]

I'm an MSA and cover TA, with two DC's at the school I work in. I've been pretty much full-time this week because of staff being ill/isolating. Yesterday the head asked for volunteers to work during the closure, which I was unable to do. DS1 is autistic and really struggling with the deviation from his routines, and DS2 has a compromised immune system (largely due to recurrent anaemia) and had pneumonia just before christmas that means his respiratory system is still not at 100%. DH is a supermarket manager so is working 60 hours plus at the moment because they're run ragged and short staffed.

We've just had a text from the head to say that after a briefing this evening, all staff must be in as usual on Monday unless they're in official 14 day isolation. I would have been pulling DS2 out of school on health grounds next week, but thought I wouldn't need to do so with the closure. We were supposed to be on skeleton staff...

I'm planning to speak to the head tomorrow, but does anyone have an idea whether I can be officially reprimanded/disciplined for refusal to come in under these circumstances?

If you’re lucky they’ll let you go on sick leave - but because it’s your children keeping you off it may well be unpaid.

Having seen the official key worker list now, it’s huge. Schools aren’t closing - and we’re going to need a lot more school staff in than initially thought.

I’m sorry you’re in such a difficult situation but remember we are still being paid - so need to expect to work usual hours.

At our trust it's been confirmed that if childcare is your issue then you will not be paid.

If your children are in school (and they are allowed to stay in school as you are in education) would you not want to preserve some of their routines rather than being at home?

Your DS is on the vulnerable peoples list with his condition and as such should be self isolating at home. Your DH is a key worker, as are you. You need to speak to your Head and explain this. If they still direct you to go to work, then speak to your union. Any Head worth their salt would be understanding, and tell you to stay at home.

Thanks everyone - I've spoken to the head today and she's been fine. Just to clarify - I wasn't expecting to be paid if I wasn't working, just concerned that I would be told I had to come in of face disciplinary action. I've said I'll work DH's days off (assuming he gets any) and she said just to keep her updated.