I am 62 and work full-time, term time only in a non-teaching role at a school. I am increasingly finding that I am feeling that I am being run into the ground i.e. increased workload, staff cuts etc. During the 10 years I've been there I have had two major heart issues - one last year as the direct result of a serious incident at school - so my health has been affected. I can't afford to stop completely yet though.
I would like to drop down to 3 days a week from September as I am running out of gas and need to look after myself. The plan would be do work p/t until I am 65 and then retire.
I've read our flexible working policy and it's pretty standard i.e. apply, give reasons, await result and if no, await meeting. I'm aware approximately 60% of my colleagues work part time i.e. flexibly.
What should I put down as reasons please to be taken seriously and to avoid pushback? I don't really want to play the health card but can't ignore it as an issue. I also can't ignore the fact that I am now doing more work than ever due to colleagues not being replaced and it is taking its toll. I work hard, efficiently and am quick to get things done, which may make it look like it's an easy job. it is not!
My line manager is the Principal and they will make the decision. They are almost obsessed with cutting money, even though the school has a considerable sum on deposit, so my reduction in hours could appeal to that part of their thinking as I am well paid. I am in quite a niche role and cover quite a few areas within the school.
Given the staffing cuts, with more that I am aware that are coming, I don't see who would pick up the work in my absence, so that is what worries me about possibly being turned down.
I hope I've given enough background but please help me to frame the reasons.