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Teachers Demand 26-Week Maternity Leave Amid Pay Concerns

4/4/2026

40 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) calls for maternity pay for UK teachers to rise to 26 weeks.
NASUWT argues support is inadequate and drives women in their 30s from teaching.
The government’s plan to extend maternity pay from four to eight weeks is seen as insufficient.
A poll finds 95% of teachers struggle balancing work and parenting, with many unable to afford additional maternity leave.

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Story summary

The National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) calls for maternity pay for UK teachers to rise to 26 weeks.
NASUWT argues support is inadequate and drives women in their 30s from teaching.
The government’s plan to extend maternity pay from four to eight weeks is seen as insufficient.
A poll finds 95% of teachers struggle balancing work and parenting, with many unable to afford additional maternity leave.