What Happens If You Miss a Resignation Deadline in the UK?

If you’re thinking about leaving your teaching role, the resignation deadline is one of the most important dates in the school calendar. Miss it and you could delay your move by a full term. But here’s what many teachers don’t realise, the rules are different depending on whether you’re in a permanent role or working in an agency/temporary position.

What Happens If You Miss the Resignation Deadline?

If You’re in a Permanent Teaching Role.

If you miss the resignation deadline, you’ll normally need to stay until the next official leaving date. For example, if you miss the 28 February deadline, you may have to remain in post until the end of the summer term rather than leaving at Easter.

Schools are not required to release you early. In some cases, a headteacher may agree to an earlier exit but this is entirely discretionary. So, for permanent teachers, missing a resignation deadline can directly affect your timeline and next career move.

If You’re in an Agency or Temporary Role

If you’re working through an agency, the traditional school resignation deadline usually does not apply. Instead, your notice period will be set out in your contract with the agency. Many agency roles operate on:

• Shorter notice periods (often around one week)
• Flexible end dates
• Rolling agreements

That means missing a school resignation deadline may not restrict you at all if you follow your agency’s contractual notice terms. If you’re unsure, check your contract or speak to your consultant before assuming you’re tied in.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’ve missed a resignation deadline:

1. Confirm your contract type- permanent or agency?
2. Check your notice period in writing.
3. Speak to the right person- your headteacher (permanent) or consultant (agency).

Final Thoughts

The resignation deadline is critical for permanent teachers missing it can mean staying another term. However, if you’re working in an agency or temporary role, your notice period is often far more flexible and may not follow standard school deadlines. Before you panic, check your contract. Understanding the difference between permanent and agency work gives you control over your next move and helps you plan your teaching career with confidence.