Leaving job before starting - contract issues?

EleanorRig

I was due to start work on Monday at a primary school (which wasn't ideal but I figured once in the position it would be easier to find another) However, I've just been offered a job at my local primary school where I volunteerd for 15 months. The hours are better and I feel happier working in an environment I know.
My problem is I obviously need to tell the other school, and at such late notice. I don't recall signing a contract (did fill in forms for payroll though) and I'm not sure where I stand letting them down at such a late stage?

chuckley

just call and tell em.

McKneff

I dont see it as a problem really, just ring them and tell them your circumstances have changed and yo wont be able to take their offer up after all.

If they ask why just tell them its for personal reasons.

Good luck in your new job.

Gleeful

Wow, you're not going to be popular. They will be a TA down at the start of the new year. I was supportive during your previous thread but I do think that what you are doing now is shocking. You would be best to ask the school where you are supposed to be starting if they can release you at October or Christmas, and advise the new school that you can't start until then.

Foggster

Unfortunately, this has happened where I work and although it was very inconvenient there was nothing we could do about it. I agree with Gleeful in that you should at least attend the job on Monday and ask to speak with the Headteacher immediately and explain the situation. Although saying that, you would not be liable for anything if you just decide to call and tell them you dont want the job.

Is there anyway you could make contact before your start date with someone from the school to at least give them notice?

Savvy_Sue

Definitely start phoning them: if no reply then get over there with a letter. There is bound to be someone in before term starts!

miss_duke

I would imagine they should be able to offer the job to another applicant hopefully, so fingers crossed they won't be too put out. Good luck with the new job!

I presume the new place can wait a month or more for you though, most people would have notice to work?

Spirit_2

This happens, irritating for the employer who is expecting you to start but the way of the world.

I would tell them as soon as possible the truth, which is that you have an alternative offer received in the last few days and it meets more of your requirements...location, working time. Apologize for letting them down...and that is it. They need the positive feedback that it is nothing they have done, it is simply you having an alternative that more closely meets your needs.

We are a large employer and this happen more often than we would like. From my helicopter view of it, it is helpful to know why no shows happen.

kingfisherblue

If you are due to start work as a teacher, the next resignation date is 31st December - there are only three resignation dates a year for teachers. However, another poster is under the impression that you are employed as a TA, which requires one month notice.. Your new school might not be impressed if you leave the first school without notice, but are likely to be understanding that you have to work your notice instead.

Many headteachers will be in school tomorrow - you might want to contact the HT at the first school and see if they are willing to let you go without notice. Be prepared for them to refuse. You should then contact the second school and either inform them that you have to work your notice, or confirm that you will be there on Monday - depending on what the first HT decides.