Applying for new job whilst on mat leave-teaching

[mummynumnum]

I am a teacher currently on mat leave in one lea. Thinking of moving to Devon in next few yrs. Have actually seen a job I would quite like in Devon. Could I apply for it whilst on mat leave. I am due back on 19th July to work. If I applied for this job and got it and resigned from current job, would it affect my maternity pay. Would I have to pay it back? Would I still go back on full pay at current school for July and August?

Any advice would be welcome?

I think that the convention is that maternity pay is honoured if you go to another school. Tnhis isn't the law though so if you work in an independent school or one that is generally difficult about these sort of things then I would contact your union. You will be very unpopular though and would never be able to go back if you changed your mind!

In my LEA (Bucks) you pay back your maternity pay even if you return to work at another school IN BUCKS!

This is a major issue for me as I'm in a Special and the Head has said no to PT because it's not appropriate for the needs of the children. I completely understand that but it seems so unfair that I'm not free to look for a part time job without paying the money back.

I'd phone HR at your LEA an check what the deal is with them.