Further promotional opportunities are also created through the Experienced Teacher with Responsibility classification, aimed at identifying and recognising excellent teachers. Teachers in government schools may also elect to participate in the packaging of salary. The objective of salary packaging is to maximise flexibility for individuals to meet their personal and financial needs while at the same time ensuring that the benefit arrangements comply with relevant taxation legislation and rulings. Flexible work options can assist individual teachers with family, study, health and other life commitments. Further information on the Department s flexible work options policy is available online.
All teachers are able to access leave for a variety of purposes.
In general however, they are not required to attend school during school vacation periods although they may use this time to undertake professional development or some school work. One week paid paternity leave is also available in conjunction with the birth of a child. There is also a system of sabbatical leave - by taking eighty per cent of salary over four years while you work, the fifth year can be taken as paid leave also at eighty per cent of salary. A summary of key leave types is available on line. The Department and schools offer regular opportunities for professional development to assist you to continue to develop your role as a teacher and broaden your skills.