Are you a teacher thinking about leaving your job?
You should choose between finding a better career and starting a new teaching job.
This choice is important, as it can significantly impact your personal and professional growth.
The most critical key to leaving your current work is doing it respectfully while keeping a strong bond with your current employer.
The following blog shows you how to write an official resignation letter, which will positively impact your former employer. And don’t miss out on our Teacher Resignation Letter Examples.
What is a Teacher Resignation Letter UK?
A resignation letter is a formal document. An Educational professional or a teacher must write a formal letter of resignation to express their decision to step away from their current teaching duties to their principal or superintendent. The resignation letter teacher UK is an essential part of the resignation process.
Did you know that a formal letter of resignation is both a professional and polite way of resigning?
The main motto of this letter is to inform educational institutions that you are leaving your job. It should be an effective and smooth transition from school.
Key Elements of a Teacher’s Letter in the UK:
The appropriate authority, the headteacher, must receive the written resignation notification.
- Educational institutions that follow maintained status require teachers to respect contractual notice periods and those established within Burgundy Book terms (England and Wales).
- The letter needs to display professional communication styles because this sustains positive working environments between colleagues and administrators.
- When feasible, teachers can help with student transitions through administrative support, which includes handovers and preparation assistance.
UK teachers employed by maintained schools must observe the specified notice periods according to their employment contract and the Burgundy Book (England and Wales).
- Autumn term: Resignation by 31 October – Last working day: 31 December.
- The early part of the spring term: Resignation will take effect on 28th/29th February, leading to termination on 30 April.
- Summer Term: Resignation by 31 May – Last working day: 31 August
Teachers who teach at independent schools need to review their contract terms when preparing for their resignations because different notice periods exist in these institutions.
Information that Should Appear within the Teacher's Letter of Resignation UK
You should include the following elements in your resignation letter to the principal, irrespective of the reasons that drive you to leave your position as a teacher:
Resignation Date
Establishing a resignation date helps everyone understand when your employment ends according to your specified notice period terms. The decision about your departure date assists your employer in salary calculations and protects your professional standing.
Last Serving Day of Your Employment
A formal resignation letter is an essential employment document that tracks your total time at the school. Your notification of departure date must be explicit to the management staff.
By communicating your Date of departure beforehand, your relationship with superiors will end positively since you have informed them beforehand.
Before selecting your employment termination date, consider the school and students’ needs for an uncomplicated transition period.
Resignation Reasons
You should state the reason for your departure, although it is optional. You should not elaborate on your future destination and the motives behind your departure. You can provide personal reasons if you keep your resignation explanation minimal.
Job Role and Designation Title
Your teaching resignation document should always include clear information about your current job role and within the organisation. The resignation letter is documented in your professional history, making it accessible to potential future employers when they perform referrals or background verifications. Your work record requires official documentation at all times.
Most Updated Contact Details
During the job-changing process, you will help your headteacher and school administrator find a suitable replacement, which will lead to your departure. Your contacts must be provided as a courtesy measure in case administrators need to reach you. Your preference for contact through a phone number or Email determines which option you should provide.
Offer Your Assistance When the Transition Occurs
The job position became vacant after your resignation, requiring a candidate to take over this role. Your new replacement needs your support to take on operating your primary duties by dedicating part of your time to teaching them the ropes. The transition process becomes smoother since you supply the necessary information about unfinished tasks, which helps protect the school and students.
A Thank You Note
Including a thank-you note in your resignation letter helps maintain positive relations and leaves a permanent professional impression. It shows appreciation for the opportunities, support, and experiences obtained during your tenure.
Closing Signature
A teacher resignation letter exists as a standardised professional document. You should choose a formal writing style and document structure for this document. The letter should end formally with a signature, your complete name, and a position title.
Why Does a Well-written Resignation Letter Matter?
To resign from a teaching position is a difficult decision.
The reason for resignation can be personal reasons, career advancement, or other unavoidable commitments. A well-structured teacher resignation letter can help you with future references and networking opportunities.
Before writing a teacher resignation letter, you have to understand why a well-written resignation letter counts. A professional and respectful resignation letter shows integrity. It also maintains positive relationships with your colleagues and employers.
It creates Good Karma according to business standards.
Most importantly, if you are resigning at the end of the school year, it is best to submit your resignation letter to your principal well in advance to give the school time to find a replacement.
Here are a Few Key Points to Include in a Teacher Letter of Resignation:
- Keep the letter brief and professional: Your letter of resignation should be concise, stating your reason for leaving and the last working day without unnecessary details.
- Maintain a positive tone: A respectful and appreciative approach helps uphold your professional reputation.
- Select the correct delivery method: Deliver a hand-printed copy of your resignation letter for a personal touch. If an in-person submission is not feasible, sending a letter via Email is an acceptable alternative.
How to Write a Correct Teacher Resignation Letter?
- Customise your letter: Always address your letter in the name of your headteacher, supervisor, principal, or HR representative. A friendly yet professional greeting, such as Dear Mr. Smith or Ms. Johnson, is ideal.
- Explain your objective and final working day: Be direct about your resignation and specify your final working day. This will avoid confusion and allow your employer to plan accordingly.
Example: Please accept this letter as an official notice to resign from my position as [your status] at [school name]. My last working day will be [Date].
- Keep your argument simple: You do not need to elaborate too much on why you are leaving. Keep it professional and upbeat.
Example: I recently accepted a job that aligns with my long-term career goals and helps in my professional development. Avoid arguments, even if you have challenges with your employer or work environment.
- Leaving a school on good terms is always the best way: Always express your gratitude and show praise for the opportunities you have had in your current job. A brief thank you goes a long way to maintaining a positive relationship.
Example: I am thankful for all the support, mentorship, and experience I got while working at [school name]. It has been really good to work with my students and coworkers.
- Ensure a smooth transition: Always assist with the transition process to make your exit easier.
Example: Resignation letter sample teacher – I am happy to assist in the handover process before my resignation date, 27 April 2025. This is to ensure a smooth transition for my students and colleagues.
- End your letter professionally: Close your letter with a humble and professional sign-off.
Example: I am writing to let you know that this letter is my formal resignation. Thank you for all your support during my working period at your school.
Let's Explore Teacher Resignation Letter Examples
Example of a resignation letter for teachers are:
Writing a Teacher Resignation Letter to Principal PDF for Personal Reasons
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[email]
[Phone Number]
[Date of the Letter]
To:[Principal’s Name]
[School Name]
[School Address]
[City, Postcode]
Subject: Teacher Letter of Resignation
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I am writing this letter as a formal notification of my resignation as a teacher at [School Name], effective on [Resignation Date]. I have been a teacher of [subject name] for the last [month or year].
It is my kind request that I am writing to resign on a formal basis from my role effective immediately. For this reason, I will not be able to serve your school. Though this is a tough decision, I must take this step due to some unavoidable personal reasons.
Therefore, I request that you accept my resignation, for which I will always be grateful.
I am thankful for all that [School Name] has given me. I will do my best to ensure an effective transition.
Best Regards,
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name]
You can use this example of resignation letter teacher.
Teaching Assistant Resignation Letter
You can use this format for a simple resignation letter for teachers in private schools.
Subject: Notice of Resignation
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning as a Teaching Assistant from [School Name]. My last day will be two weeks from today.
Thank you for giving me the chance to learn and grow in my job. I’m thankful for your help and support. It was nice working with the staff and students. I will do my best to ensure everything is in order before leaving.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample Resignation Letter Without Notice Period
It can be challenging to resign from a job without serving a notice period, but a professionally written resignation letter can help you maintain professionalism and leave on good terms. Below is a Resignation Letter Example Without Notice Period Guide. Write the letter when you need to leave immediately.
Major points to include:
- Explain your immediate resignation clearly: Be direct about your intentions to resign without notice. If necessary, mention the appropriate reason (e.g., personal cause, health issues, emergency).
- Express gratitude: Show praise for opportunities and experiences obtained.
- Maintain a positive tone to maintain professional relationships.
- Provide help if possible: Offer to transition your responsibilities before leaving the school.
- End the letter on good terms: Close the letter with a humble and professional sign-off.
Before giving any notice, think twice. As mentioned in your teacher contract, you are usually bound to serve a prescribed notice period.
Free Teacher Resignation Letter Template Without Notice Period
Read this example of teacher resignation letter.
Sub: Immediate Resignation Letter
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I regret to inform you that due to unforeseen Circumstances, I have to tender my resignation as [Your Position, such as Science Teacher] at [Name of the School], effective immediatel,y for personal reasons. This decision has been challenging; however, due to urgent issues, I won’t be able to work till my notice period.
Please accept my apologies for the inconvenience, and thank you for all the opportunities I have had during my tenure. I am grateful to you for your understanding in this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
You can use the above sample as a teacher resignation letter for family reasons.
Teacher Resignation Letter to Principal Due to Health Issues
Are you juggling with the medical conditions? Unable to do a job? Then, you have to write a resignation letter due to medical reasons, as stated below:
Subject: Resignation Letter Due to Health Issues
Dear [Principal’s Name],
Due to ongoing medical reasons, I am submitting my resignation through this letter from [Your Position] at [Name of the school]. My last working day will be [Date].
It was a difficult decision, but I must prioritise my health now.
I sincerely appreciate the support and understanding of the administration and my colleagues. Please let me know if I can help with this transition.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Writing this letter helps you leave a job on good terms, even if you do not give notice per the terms and conditions. All this is about being transparent and humble.
Resignation Letter due to Family Illness
Please find below the resignation letter example due to family illness
Subject: Resignation Due to Family Emergency
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I need to resign from my teaching position at [School Name] effective [Date] because of a serious family illness.
I must focus on supporting my family during this time. I’m thankful for the experiences and growth I’ve had at [School Name], and I will work to make sure the transition goes smoothly before I leave.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
It is tough to decide to resign from a job because of family health issues. But family comes first! So, it is necessary to prioritise the well-being of your loved ones.
These examples of letters of resignation for teachers or teacher letter of resignation examples are beneficial if anyone wants to formulate one for themselves.
How to Write a Resignation Letter to School Principal?
Always write this letter to the appropriate person, such as your school’s principal. Refer to the below professional letter for teacher resignation letter Template UK, teacher letter of resignation UK, or letter of resignation teacher UK. Read this example teacher resignation letter UK.
Subject: Resignation from My Position as a Teacher
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I am writing this letter to inform you of my decision to resign from my job [Your Teaching Position] at [School Name]. Please accept this resignation letter as my official notice, effective from [resignation date].
I recently received a job offer from another school where I can further pursue my career goals. Moreover, the career opportunities available in that school perfectly aligned with my long-term goals.
OR
This letter serves as my official resignation. The reason for my departure is [optional: personal reasons, career change, relocation, etc.].
I am thankful for the opportunities I’ve had at [School Name] and appreciate the support from the administration, colleagues, and students. I will make sure to help with a smooth transition before I leave.
I wish the school all the best in the future and am truly grateful for the valuable experience and growth I’ve gained during my time here.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
You can also refer to the above sample of teacher resignation letter to principal for personal reasons.
When To Write A Teacher Resignation Letter?
Before attempting to write a resignation letter, having an F2F (face-to-face) conversation with the principal is very important. After the meeting, you can submit the letter to the principal. Also, ensure you are not neglecting any legal clauses in the job contract.
When you resign at the end of the school year, select an appropriate date to complete all the final work related to administration.
Besides, when you resign in the middle of the year, your job contract may have a required amount of notice you must provide.
As expected for most jobs, you will most likely give at least two weeks’ notice. If required, refer to our teacher resignation letter examples in this blog.
Is it Ethical to Write a Resignation Letter via Email?
Yes, resigning through email is ethical, especially if the school policy allows it or it is urgent. With professionalism, express your gratitude and inform your manager in advance.
Conclusion
Writing a teacher resignation letter may feel like a tough task, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right format, respectful tone, and clear communication, you can leave your job on a positive note.
Whether you’re leaving for personal reasons, health, or a new opportunity, a well-written letter shows your professionalism and gratitude. Use our examples and tips to make the process easier and smoother.
Do you need assistance in writing a teacher resignation letter? Contact iCover, the best CV Writing Service. Our team has experts who can write the letter professionally, keeping a positive tone and following all the regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write a polite and simple resignation letter as a teacher?
To write a resignation letter, mention your teaching post, date of resignation, reason for resignation (depending on the reason), appreciation for the school, and willingness to assist during the transition.
How do I resign from a class teacher position?
You should submit a formal resignation letter to your principal or headteacher, aligning with the job contract and school policies.
How do you politely resign through a letter?
Keep the letter professional, short, and appreciative. Always express your kind gratitude and offer transition assistance before leaving the school.
What Should Not Be Included in the Resignation Letter?
The information that is not relevant should not be added to your resignation letter. Do not use the following:
- Don’t include negative statements, Such as you hate your job or are happy to resign from this position.
- Don’t say anything about your coworkers
- Don’t include threatening language. An email or any letter can go viral, so avoid using inappropriate words and make a smooth transition.
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