TUC calls for flexibility over staggered starts for reception kids

The TUC is calling on employers to allow parents to work flexibly as their children start primary school this month.

It says around 400,000 working mothers have children starting primary school across England and Wales this September. Given that most primary schools in the UK operate a staggered start for children entering reception classes, with youngsters required to attend just for morning or afternoon sessions for the first few weeks, the TUC says bosses should listen seriously to requests from staff to work flexibly, to take holiday or to take unpaid parental leave over this period to help with childcare arrangements.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “The beginning of September marks a huge milestone for children starting reception class. But for many working mums this time of year can also be a logistical nightmare.

“It’s important that starting school is not rushed and that children take their time to become settled and confident in school. But some families will really struggle to juggle childcare arrangements alongside work, and bosses need to be sympathetic to flexible working, work from home and leave requests.”

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