I joined the school last year on a fixed-term contract, which is set to end when Year 13 goes on study leave. Currently, I’m working part-time under this contract, but since I also teach other classes, the school has proposed extending the contract with reduced hours (from 7 to 3) during the study leave for Year 11 and Year 13. The hours would increase again in September, but the contract would remain fixed-term rather than becoming permanent.
I’m wondering if I should raise the issue and ask for a permanent contract. Other than the job security it provides in case of long-term illness, is there any real advantage to making the role permanent?
While the temporary reduction in hours is somewhat frustrating, I didn’t expect to be paid beyond the original contract end date, so the extension is actually a welcome offer. I understand that the school wants to cut costs by reducing hours over the summer when fewer classes are running, and I’m okay with this as long as I’m still paid for the reduced schedule. That said, I do wonder if this situation is somewhat exploitative, and whether I should be more proactive in protecting my rights.
On the other hand, I also recognize that a permanent contract would come with a greater commitment, such as a full-term notice period and possibly additional responsibilities. I’m trying to determine if it’s reasonable to ask for a permanent contract, or if the school’s approach is simply a fair reflection of the temporary nature of their staffing needs over the summer.
What do you think? Should I push for a permanent contract, or is the school’s approach reasonable given the circumstances?