So, you’ve decided to resign from your teaching post, whatever your reason for leaving you will always have to write a teacher resignation letter. Even if your school are already aware that you are moving on, from a legal point of view it isn’t over until a resignation letter is written and submitted.

Before you resign, make sure you know how much notice teachers have to give and how to follow the correct procedure.

What to include in a teacher resignation letter can be a bit daunting. It does not need to be painful, complicated or emotional, it should stick to the main facts and dates for leaving your position.

There are no set templates for resignation letters and they can always be adapted depending on the position and the nature of why you are leaving the post. Your letter of resignation should be a concise, respectful and professional that details basic information about your resignation including:

• Date
• Name
• Position
• Opening paragraph. “I hereby provide notice in writing of my resignation from my position as [job title] at [school]”
• Projected leaving date
• Reason for leaving
• Relevant information about your classes
• Any important details your replacement may need to know
• A statement of thanks or a positive paragraph about your time in the position

When you are writing your teacher resignation letter, keep in mind the following:

• You don't have to include details of why you are leaving, you can simply state personal reasons
• Be professional and keep the tone of your letter positive
• If you have had a conversation about your resignation already, you can refer to it in your letter
• Find something positive to say. Your resignation letter may be referred to if a future employer asks for a reference, so always try to leave on a positive note

If there are things you need to discuss, either about your reasons for leaving, or about the preparations needed before you leave, you can request an exit interview.

If you need to discuss your remaining holiday entitlement or your final salary payment, speak directly to the relevant department, often the human resources (HR) department instead of detailing it in your notice of resignation.

When handing in your teacher resignation letter, make sure you find a time when the headteacher is not rushing to a class or meeting, so that you can politely hand it over and if need be, discuss your resignation.

 Once your teacher resignation letter has been accepted, work your notice period kindly, with a positive attitude and to the best of your abilities. 

Example of a teacher letter of resignation

Insert date letter will be submitted

Dear (insert name of headteacher),

Resignation from post of English teacher at Anon School

I hope you are well. I’m just informing you that I am resigning from my position as teacher of English at Anon Secondary School with effect from 1 September 2021. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with pupils, members of staff and the wider school community.

My last day of employment will be (insert last day of term, refer to our article on notice periods for further details).

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and the rest of the teachers at Anon School for the support that you have given me throughout my time here. I have enjoyed working as a part of this team, and appreciate the opportunities that I have had for personal and professional development over the last 3 years. I shall ensure that my remaining time working with the students of Anon School will be as successful as the earlier terms. I wish the school continued success in the future.

Kind regards,

Insert your name

Insert your contact details

We’re here to help and support you

Handing in your notice is the first step towards an exciting journey that will help you further your career and grasp new opportunities.  At TLTP Education, all our consultants are trained to support you and your career decisions every step of the way.

For a friendly and informal chat, call us on 020 8709 6540 or start your journey by registering here https://www.tltp.co.uk/user/registration.   

For more support, advice and information regarding employment-related issues visit

NEU - https://neu.org.uk/advice/notice-periods

NASUWT - https://www.nasuwt.org.uk/advice/conditions-of-service/resigning-from-your-job.html