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How much notice do teachers need to give in the UK?

  • Publish Date: Posted over 3 years ago
  • Author: Leah Baker

We know how committed teachers are to their roles, but after a while, it is time to move on for your self-development and to shine your skills elsewhere. Handing your notice is can be daunting in general, but resignation dates can be confusing for teachers. Please find iCan Teach UK’s guide to help you when you feel it is time to give your notice

Teachers’ resignation

Prepare!

You need to be aware of the timescale of your notice period before handing in your resignation. So, we would recommend checking this before you begin sending applications or planning interviews.

Teachers have longer notice periods than other professions and you need to think about the term times and starting a position in a new term. Did you know that your notice period is also dependant on the role you are currently in?

Resignation dates and notice periods

Planning on leaving during a particular term? Please see below some helpful times to hand in your notice

Teachers

  • To leave for the Christmas holidays 2020, you must resign by 31st October

  • To leave for the Easter holidays 2021, you must resign by 28th February

  • To leave for the Summer holidays 2021, you must resign by 31st May

Every county’s term times can differ, so if you are moving from one county to another, we would recommend checking your school’s term and holiday dates

Headteachers

  • To leave for the Christmas holidays 2020, you must resign by 30th September

  • To leave for the Easter holidays 2021, you must resign by 31st January

  • To leave for the Summer holidays 2021, you must resign by 30th April

We have linked here helpful career advice on how to handle your resignation if you work in leadership in education.

Leaving Dates

Term dates, leaving dates, and contracts can be confusing. It makes sense for you to leave as a holiday begins and most schools will allow this to happen. However, if the dates from one school you are moving from do not correlate to the next, remember your pay continues until the end of term from your previous school which can cause an issue.

Also, If your notice period does not coincide with the half terms, you will have to come to an agreement with your school and you may be expected to continue your work until the end of the term.

The Easter holiday and the start of the Summer term can be the dates that can move each year, so if this does not link up, you may have to speak with your school.

Autumn term – 31st December

Spring term – 30th April

Summer term – 31st August

Starting Dates

Winter term – 1st January

Spring term – 1st May

Autumn term – 1st September

Helpful Information

If you are thinking about leaving your current teaching position, click here, for some advice on the right time to leave your role.

If you would like support in finding your next role, speak to one of our friendly consultants or register today.