Asking to go PT as a TA

[TAseagull]

Would I be unreasonable to go PT now that the term has already started? Even coming in at 10.30 once a week would help. My DC is autistic and struggling - I'd like a bit more work/life balance and the chance to do some training on autism etc.

I've been at the school for 2 terms already and feel like I'm at breaking point but also understand it may just be a super inconvenient time to ask.

yes unfortunately
you will have to ride it out
and even then no guarantee

It’s a conversation you’d need to have with your line manager to see if there are any flexibilities within the TA team.
Us on MN don’t know the set up, chances are they could accomodate the one day… but if you were to drop more hours across the week then chances are they’d decline this.

I was in a similar position some years ago. Are you a 1:1 or a class TA? Some schools let 1:1s go if the child leaves the school.

It would be worth asking the question to know where you stand.

Also, ask union if it’s covered by reasonable adjustments. Also, if you could take some unpaid Carers Leave.

Check your contract. I was on a contract that was 1 calendar month’s notice. In the worst case scenario you could hand your notice in and look for a job with fewer hours.

Trust me, there is never a “good time” to ask for less hours but you have to do what is right for you and your family.

Good luck. I remember how extraordinarily draining it was to work with SEN in school and then cope with ASD son at home.