Can I return to work from mat leave on a friday

[Rubyroost]

Then get paid over the weekend?

Yes. You can return whenever you like!

Thank you

I'm not sure actually.. my LA policy was that it needed to be a Sunday to start and end. Might be worth checking to be sure though honestly it seems silly that it has to be a particular day.

The teacher I'm covering is returning on a Sunday.

I returned on a Friday (which incidentally was my day off) and I was paid for the week that had passed.
The following week was half term too.
You have to make it work for you.
Hope your LA/AT allows this for you.