Is a teacher returning from maternity leave entitled to specify the date of her return without reference to the convenience of the school?
The Burgundy Book, which sets out the conditions of service agreed between the local authority employers and the teachers’ unions, lays down that a woman teacher who has at least two years of continuous service by the eleventh week before the expected date of the birth of her child may remain absent for up to 29 weeks following the week in which the child is born. She is required to give at least seven days notice of her intention to return to work.
However, the employer may give notice in writing to postpone the date of return for a maximum of four weeks. The reason for postponement must be given.
