Government approves reforms to career breaks in teaching
The government of Flanders has agreed proposals that will make it easier for teachers to care for children or sick relatives, or take time off for extra study
‘Work-family-care balance’
Under the new system, teachers who have reached the age of 55 will also be allowed to work part-time while still maintaining a pension.
The present regime consists of several systems under which teachers must apply for unpaid leave. Education minister Hilde Crevits said that simplification of the system had been an ambition of Flemish education ministers for almost two decades.
The teaching profession has long been recognised by the government as one where stress and burnout are common. Last month, Crevits called for teaching to be on the federal list of tough jobs, which would entitle them to earlier retirement.
Presenting the regulation, which is designed to meet the goal of promoting the government’s goal for a “work-family-care balance” she said: “Thus we meet the real needs of staff in critical or difficult moments in their careers.”
The draft plan is now being negotiated with social partners and will be passed to the parliament for approval. Crevits said she would also bring forward proposals for a similar scheme for teachers in higher education.
Educational system
million school-going children in 2013
million euros Flemish education budget for new school infrastructures in 2013
percent of boys leaving secondary school without a diploma
- Education in Flanders
- Secondary education reform
- European Encyclopaedia on National Education Systems
