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

Am I being forced out?

5 replies

downandout01 · 18/07/2022 23:48

I am currently on maternity leave with my 2nd child, due to return to work in December. I made a flex working request to do my pastoral MLT role part time as a job share (which I had done previously after 1st mat leave for a period of time) and this was refused.
Since then I have found out that a colleague working the same position as me has been given a year out of the role- like a sabbatical- which I thought could, in the absence of being permitted to work my role part time when I return, work well for me too. I have asked if this could be granted to me too and have been told no. I've been told I can either return full time to my pastoral TLR role or I can give it up and then they will give me part time as classroom teacher.
I am so upset. I worked v hard to achieve my TLR role and thought I was well respected as an effective and impactful middle leader. To be in a position where I am being forced to choose between having time to spend with my own kids or retaining my place on the career ladder is really doing a number on me. I can't sleep, can't stop thinking about it in the day- it is a bit all consuming. I feel as though the Head is trying to force me out from my leadership position. Am I being paranoid? Any advice?

OP posts:
Happymum12345 · 25/07/2022 00:24

I have no advice, but I think this is sadly very common. I hope someone can advise you.

Twillow · 25/07/2022 02:39

Contact your union. My head rapidly backtracked after the union spoke to her. It's a sexual discrimination issue where childcare needs are involved.

Katjolo · 25/07/2022 08:52

Go to your union. They will help. Good luck.

Meredusoleil · 25/07/2022 21:22

It sounds like more of a financial based decision, but yes, they should not be discriminating against you on this basis.

MarneyM · 31/07/2022 16:34

@downandout01

Employers have to consider a flexible working request. They can make their decision in the best interests of the ‘business’. This may not be a decision that suits you.

www.acas.org.uk/making-a-flexible-working-request

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