How to Apply | Teacher SPL

 

Shared Parental Leave (SPL) Guide for Teachers

Everything you need to apply successfully—eligibility tool, forms, timelines & common pitfalls.

TRY OUR SPL CALCULATOR FOR TEACHERS

Step 1 – Check You Are Eligible

Visit our Eligibility page and use the official government calculator to confirm your entitlement. Only the parent intending to take SPL needs ticks in their section.

Tip: Screenshot your calculator results for your records.

Step 2 – Ask Your School for Their SPL/SPP Policy

Policies differ. Confirm whether Shared Parental Pay (SPP) is enhanced or statutory minimum. Knowing this may influence how you split your leave blocks.

Step 3 – Work Out Your Leave Blocks

How Many Blocks Can I Take?

You can take an initial maternity leave block followed by up to three separate blocks of SPL. Decide if your partner (or the child’s father) will also take any SPL

Step 4 – Complete the SPL Paperwork Correctly

Your school or academy may supply their own forms. If not, use the ACAS templates below. The paperwork needed depends on whether your partner will take leave.

Mandatory Forms

Scenario Forms Needed
Only you taking SPL Form 1 – Notice of Entitlement
Form 2 – Leave Notification (one per block)
You & partner both taking SPL Forms 1, 2 & 3 plus partner’s declaration

Download all forms (sourced from GOV.UK)

Pro Tip: Submit a separate Form 2 for each SPL block. Employers cannot refuse discrete applications, whereas a single application with discontinuous leave can be challenged.

Step 5 – Submit at Least Eight Weeks in Advance

Send your forms a minimum of 8 weeks before the date you plan to end maternity leave. Keep copies and request written acknowledgement.

If HR challenges your application, ask for the response in writing. Many departments are still unfamiliar with SPL rules. You can: