Advert for January start - but want to start later

[PhysicsT]

I have been thinking for a while that this academic year will be my last at my current school. I have just seen a job advert go up for a school I think I would really like to work in - but it is for a January start.

I teach GCSE and A level Physics - there aren't many of us about and I'm one of only 2 Physics teachers at my school, and to be honest the other is not a great teacher (sounds harsh, but he just doesn't know his stuff well enough) - I really don't want to leave at January and abandon my 4 exam groups.

Has anyone every applied for a job but asked if you can start later? Seems really cheeky to even email and ask? Don't want to give a negative impression! I was thinking of emailing before applying to see what they say?

Thanks!

If they are looking for a physics specialist, they may well be open to negotiating.

I've known physics teachers in the past negotiate various things- my understanding is they often raise it at the end of the interview when asked if they would accept the job if offered.

I think emailing and asking would be pretty generous to the school. If they're looking specifically for a physics specialist, they'll probably at least consider it!

Ohh ok thanks.

See I thought it was a bit cheeky to email like 'hey, really interested in the job but it's not at a convenient time for me...' haha

But from what you have said it seems like this would be the decent thing to do. I didn't even consider that some people might apply and then leave it until the last minute to say this ! Not really my style.

Like every job interview ever, it will depend on supply and demand.

Like pp I would apply, go for interview, and then bring it up at the end.
When you go to the school, you might decide you aren't that keen on it. Or, that you love it and want to start now. Or, as you now think, you will only go once you've seen your current pupils through to their exams. If you don't apply, you'll never know.

There is also the possibility that they would say no, but remember you from interview if either another job came up or if this one were re-advertised.

However, you will always have pupils part way through - you would never, ever leave a school if you think like that. Sometimes you have to think about yourself.

I would request a visit and sound them out. Physics specialists are in demand so you may be in a strong position. It would also help them to plan - if there were no suitable candidates available for January they might ask you to commit to starting in summer 2 and look to secure long-term supply from January - May. We had a retired colleague come back to cover such a gap last year.

Don't take it personally if they say no, however. If they are advertising for a January start there's a good chance they are already covering the vacancy and they may not have the luxury of waiting for you.

I fully appreciate your honourable concern re:your current post, however in a years time your future pupils will be your current pupils and if it is a post you really want you need to weigh up the potential drawbacks of them not having someone in post ASAP