Teachers - how important was it for you to be back in august for the new term?

[neepsntatties]

Trying to decide when to go back to work. I don't know if I should go back for August so I can be there at the start of the new term. My baby will be seven months. Alternatively I am thinking of going back in October when she is eight months. I am breastfeeding so was thinking by eight months she will be well on into her weaning so hopefully won't have to express so much etc.

I teach secondary and hope to go back three days a week. Do you think those extra few weeks could make a big difference?

I can't see a huge difference between 7 and 8 months; in fact if anything, your child will perhaps be easier to leave at a slightly younger age, as separation anxiety kicks in more at 9 months or so.
Personally I would find it easier to return at the start of the school year, rather than picking up classes in october and feeling a bit 'left behind'. Also, you may end up with a better timetable if you're there from the start, as if you start one month in, you'll be presumably covered by supply staff or some temporary arrangement, whereas if the school know you're there from sept, they are more likely to be considerate with timetabling. Its also a lot easier to start fresh with your classes than perhaps have to pick up the pieces if the kids have had a lot of supply staff

Thanks, I am really torn. I want to be there at the start of term but another part of me is struggling at the thought of leaving my baby. I didn't have to do it with ds.

Hi Neep,
I'm a teacher and returned to work 3 days a week last October. It was fine, although it took a bit longer to get classes on track as they had had a supply teacher. The main difference was that I had to teach a lot of bottom sets, as to risky to give other sets to suppy (incase they don't get the grades!). Don't know whether this would be the case at your school? It was nice to have a bit longer on maternity leave though.
Good luck :)