Notice, Letters, and Professional Exit Strategies When Resigning

Resigning from a role in early childhood education is a natural part of career progression. Whether you’re moving on to new opportunities, prioritising wellbeing, or navigating personal changes, it’s important to resign with clarity, professionalism, and dignity. This guide outlines notice periods, signs it may be time to leave, what to say, how to write a resignation letter, and strategies for managing difficult situations.

Recognising When It’s Time to Go

Educators often resign when:

A new role better supports career growth or well-being.
Workplace culture no longer aligns with personal values.
Burnout or lack of support becomes unsustainable.
Personal circumstances (study, relocation, family) require change.
You’re ready to explore leadership or new pathways.

Understanding Notice Periods

Under the Children’s Services Award and the Fair Work Act, notice depends on your length of service:

Length of Service	Minimum Notice Required
1 year or less	1 week
1–3 years	2 weeks
3–5 years	3 weeks
5+ years	4 weeks

Always check your contract or enterprise agreement, as specific terms may apply.

What to Say When Resigning

Keep your words professional, respectful, and clear:

“I’ve appreciated my time here, but I’ve decided to move on to a new opportunity.”
“I’m resigning effective [date], in line with my notice period.”
“I value the experiences I’ve had here and wish the team continued success.”

Example Script for Face‑to‑Face Resignation

Step 1: Request a private moment
“Do you have a few minutes to talk? I’d like to share something important.”

Step 2: State your decision clearly
“I’ve decided to resign from my position as [Your Role]. My final day will be [date], in line with my notice period.”

Step 3: Express gratitude
“I’ve really valued the opportunity to work here and the experiences I’ve had with the children, families, and team.”

Step 4: Offer support for transition
“I’m happy to help with handover tasks to make the transition as smooth as possible.”

Step 5: Close positively
“I wish the centre continued success, and I’m grateful for the time I’ve spent here.”

Handling Hostile Reactions

If your employer reacts poorly:

Stay calm and professional: repeat your key message without engaging in conflict.
Document everything: keep written records of conversations and your resignation letter.
Know your rights: employers cannot withhold entitlements; notice can be paid out if asked to leave immediately.
Set boundaries: redirect hostile conversations to email.
Seek support: contact your union or the Fair Work Ombudsman if needed.

Example phrases:

“I understand this is difficult, but I am committed to working my notice professionally.”
“I’d like to keep this conversation respectful and focused on the transition.”
“I’ll put my resignation details in writing so everything is clear.”

If Your Employer Asks You to Leave Immediately

Sometimes centres prefer you not to work through your notice. Here’s what happens:

Payment in lieu of notice: If asked to leave straight away, your employer must pay you the wages you would have earned during your notice period.
Final pay entitlements: Your final pay must also include accrued annual leave, overtime, and allowances.
Mutual agreement: If you agree to shorten your notice, you may not be entitled to full payment.
Deductions: If you resign without giving required notice, employers may deduct up to one week’s wages (if allowed under your Award/Agreement).
Protect yourself: Always request written confirmation of your final day and entitlements.

Example response:

“I understand you’d prefer me to finish today. Could you please confirm that my notice period will be paid out in full?”
“I’ll respect your decision, but I’d like written confirmation of my final pay and entitlements.”

Resigning is a normal part of career progression. By giving proper notice, keeping communication professional, and leaving on good terms, you protect your reputation and wellbeing while opening the door to new opportunities. The early childhood sector is close‑knit—how you leave matters just as much as how you arrive.