Benefits | Maternity Leave Teaching Free Period Scheme
Maternity Leave Teaching Free Period
The teaching free period upon return from maternity leave provides the opportunity for female academic staff to focus their time on research-related activity by allowing them to step back from teaching activity for a maximum of one semester. This is an offering included in the DCU Maternity Leave Policy.
Who is eligible for the teaching free period?
Academic staff with teaching commitments may apply for a research exclusive period following their maternity leave. This is available for one semester and must be availed of within the first 12 months of returning to their post.
The conditions of the Teaching Free period are set out in the Maternity Leave Policy and are as follows:
- The employee must be returning to their academic role following a period of maternity leave (either the initial paid period up to 26 weeks, or the unpaid period of 16 weeks);
- The teaching-free period is for a maximum of one semester and must be taken in one block;
- The employee will need to discuss and confirm the uptake of this option with the Head of School at least 6 weeks before their return to work date. The discussion should include agreement on specific goals to be achieved in relation to the teaching free period;
- It is recommended that the Head of School and employee meet twice during the no teaching period to discuss progress regarding the successful reintegration of the employee into the workplace;
- Recording of take up of the No Teaching Period will be held locally.
What is the process for availing of the teaching free period?
Uptake of the teaching free period upon return from maternity leave is to be agreed between the Head of School and the staff member involved. The Head of School is responsible for organising appropriate cover for these teaching hours.
How does the School apply for financial support to cover teaching hours, if needed?
The School will advise their HR Business Partner of uptake of the scheme, who will confirm in writing to the EDI unit. The School will be asked to complete a short funding request form upon uptake of the teaching free period to ensure payment is approved in advance of the teaching free period commencing. Please note, this form should only be completed by Head of School after speaking with their DCU People Business Partner.
The School will pay the cost of covering the teaching hours and can then claim back total cost from the EDI unit. Funding (covering one semester of teaching hours only, up to €74.15 per hour) is paid to the School through the Finance department via internal transfer.
The scheme has a limited annual budget, and although we will endeavour to fund all uptake annually, funding will be provided on a first come first served basis.