Maternity Leave for Teachers
Clear guidance to help you plan and apply with confidence
Your Maternity Timeline
Before 25 Weeks
Start thinking about your maternity leave dates and how they align with school terms.
By 15 Weeks Before Due Date
Inform your school of your pregnancy, due date, and intended maternity leave start date.
Around 20 Weeks
Receive your MATB1 form from your midwife or doctor and give it to your employer.
Up to 11 Weeks Before Due Date
Your maternity leave can begin from this point if you choose.
During Leave
You can use Keeping in Touch (KIT) days and stay informed about school updates.
Before Returning
Give at least 8 weeks’ notice if returning earlier or requesting flexible working.
Getting Started
When should I tell my school I’m pregnant?
You must inform your employer by the end of the 15th week before your due date, although many teachers choose to do so earlier.
When can maternity leave start?
Maternity leave can begin up to 11 weeks before your expected week of childbirth.
How long can I take off?
You can take up to 52 weeks of maternity leave in total.
The Government website has this tool to check if you can get:
Maternity Allowance
Statutory Maternity Leave or Pay
Statutory Paternity Leave or Pay
Check out our blog on Maternity Leave