Part time request

[VioletLilies]

I'm currently on maternity leave and hoping to go back part time (primary). I know the last couple of people in my school who requested this have had it refused, so I want to put my request across in the best way possible! (rumour is the academy trust is not a fan of job shares). Is it best to send a letter outlining reasons for the request and positives from it, or would I be better contacting my head first and having an informal call to discuss it so it doesn't come out of the blue? I can't find any information on which is the best procedure.

I would have a chat first before submitting the request, I think that is more polite. In your case, in the chat I would be listening for the reasons given as to why they aren't keen on flexible working (which happens in every school I've ever been aware of) and ensure your actual request finds ways to solve these problems.