Discrepancy in Special Leave Entitlement

As time progresses and the shortcomings of the recent garbled agreement become apparent, the Union and its members are raising questions regarding specific aspects of the agreement.

Several Peripatetic Teachers have reached out to the UPE to express their frustrations over the inadequate negotiations that were expected to bring about positive changes. 

Who would have anticipated that, after several years of delay surrounding the agreement, one would discover discriminatory clauses that undermine the very educators they aim to support? 

Clause 10.10 states:

“The six (6) working days preceding the sixth (6th) of July shall be reserved for the correction of scripts and reporting of assessments. Teachers and Heads of Department may choose to carry out the correction of scripts and reporting of assessments off-site.”

This provision allows regular teachers who are involved in exam and assessment corrections to work from home during this period, which is, after all, a commendable initiative.

Unfortunately, Peripatetic Teachers will not have the same opportunity; they will be required to remain on school premises with no assigned tasks. 

As a result, regular teachers can utilise their special leave from October to June, while Peripatetic Teachers must ensure they have sufficient hours of special leave remaining to account for these days.

It’s truly heartening to see that while some teachers get to enjoy their leave, others get to enjoy the delightful ambiance of an empty school thanks to MUT’s messy agreement!