ABSTRACT
From the outside, teaching can seem like the most compatible career choice for parents – and why shouldn’t it be? Long holidays, an insight into our children’s worlds, and of course, teachers only work from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm! Current teachers and leaders know, however, that whilst teaching may have its perks, it can be tough for parent-teachers. Long hours, emotive contexts, inflexible schedules – is it any wonder that female teachers aged 30–39 are the largest demographic to leave the classroom every year?
Schools that enable parent-teachers to thrive – the ‘family friendly’ schools that we showcase in this chapter – do exist. This chapter shares stories from teachers and leaders who have been supported by their schools throughout their parenting journey. It showcases the flexible, understanding school cultures created by strategic leaders who know that ‘family friendly’ leadership is a key retention strategy, and a means of securing excellent teaching and learning.
