Page 29 - Mini-Module 9

Probation

A teacher on first appointment to an aided school shall serve a
probationary period of two years, after which the employment of such

teacher shall be permanent, subject to such provisions regarding
termination of employment as may be contained in such teacher's
contract of service or letter of appointment. The employment of a

teacher on probation shall be terminable by the School Management
Committee or the teacher giving one month's notice.

The employment of a teacher who has satisfactorily completed a
probationary period, shall be terminable by the giving of three months'

notice in writing by the School Management Committee or by the
teacher.

Can I employ a teacher for a probationary period and then not renew
the contract?

For most employees this should not arise. Because the Codes of Aid
specifically require a two-year probationary period, and stipulate that

the contract can be terminated after this, it is generally quite lawful for
a school management committee not to renew the fixed term
probationary contract or to dismiss an employee once the term has

expired. However the provisions of the Codes of Aid must be followed
(serving notices etc) and at least one month’s notice has to be given to
the teacher. Exceptions to the general rule that employment can be
terminated will be when the dismissal is connected with maternity, sex

or family status discrimination.

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