New Job - 45 Paid Weeks

[testingtestingsmallintestine]

I have just started a new part-time job as a teaching assistant. I was aware before accepting the position that it is temporary (it's working with an individual child, so the role is only there as long as it is funded), but I've only just been given a formal letter of employment, which says I have 40 working weeks and 45 paid weeks. Is this usual and does this mean I won't be paid for the - presumably - Summer holidays?

It does sound like a term time only role. I have seen this before for a school based role.

You will normally be paid for 45 weeks spread across the year. Exactly the same as teachers pay. Mine states 32.5 hours 45 weeks a year but pay is equalled out over 12 months.

Yes, this is normal for working term time only.

You'll work 40 weeks but be paid 45 because they legally have to give you paid holiday, so five weeks paid holiday. The rest is still holiday but unpaid.

You will get a payday every month, including during the holidays. They usually divide what you earn into 12, monthly payments.

Phew! I imagined I would have weeks without being paid! It makes sense now - thank you so much for your replies!