Compulsory induction event outside of contracted hours

[thesearetherichesofthepoor]

Probs a non issue but it's been a hell of a week and I'm annoyed.

Started a new job as a TA working for a mid sized academy trust. Contracted hours are basically 9-3 every day.

Just had an email saying there's a compulsory induction event for 2 hours on a Monday afternoon outside of work hours at their head office to meet other new starters and 'key individuals'.

Can it be compulsory if it's outside of my contracted hours?

I know I have to go really but it's 4-6pm, I've got kids who now I need childcare for etc etc.

Do you not have staff meetings outside of those contracted hours? Does your contract specify contracted hours as in 9am - 3pm or does it say the total hours over the academic year without daily timings?

It specifies my usual hours are 9-3. Then states any other hours will be agreed with myself in advance if it benefits the trust.

Nope no meetings. I'm a one to one. I don't have a job description, have only briefly met the SENco and the trust are pushing for my one to one child to leave the school according to the teacher before he affects test scores. Also have another unofficial one to one child so I'm already drained by the end of the day.

Love the kids. Love the role. Not overly impressed by the trust/school so I think that's why it's annoyed me.

This is a reasonable request, they have given notice and it is intended to benefit you and the trust. You should be paid for this and you can ask, but may not be entitled, to childcare costs as it’s outside your normal working hours.

Sometimes it’s not possible to arrange inductions/training to suit every employee and so an employer will pick a sensible time and give sufficient notice. Being flexible about this shows commitment and also in the future may mean an employer offers you flexibility when you need it.

Quite often employees forget that flexible working, including part time, is a two way street with both parties able to ask for and to grant flexibility.