Leave for Teachers
Teaching Service Commission · Papua New Guinea
Annual Leave
Accrues progressively based on continuous service. Normally taken during school vacations. Prior approval required for leave outside vacation periods. Unused leave may accumulate subject to Commission limits.
Sick Leave
Up to three consecutive days without a medical certificate. Beyond three days, a certificate from a registered practitioner is required. Recorded separately — does not reduce annual leave entitlement.
Maternity Leave
Six weeks before and six weeks after confinement — twelve weeks total at full salary. Medical documentation and advance notice to the Head Teacher and Provincial Division required.
Paternity Leave
Granted to male teachers following the birth of a child. Governed by PNG General Orders. Supporting documentation required. Does not affect the teacher's annual leave entitlement.
Leave Without Pay
Granted at TSC discretion when paid leave is exhausted or for personal, study, or compassionate reasons. Does not accrue entitlements and may affect superannuation. Written application with full reasons required.
Special Leave
Covers bereavement, cultural obligations, national or international representation, and court attendance. Duration varies by circumstance. Supporting documentation and advance application required wherever possible.
Study Leave
For TSC-approved courses relevant to teaching duties or professional development. Paid study leave requires a return-of-service agreement. Study leave without pay is available for longer-term academic programmes.
Furlough Leave
A long-service benefit for teachers who have completed the qualifying period of continuous service. Full or pro-rata entitlement processed at the time of retirement or resignation. Apply well in advance to avoid delays.
Leave During Suspension
Suspended teachers are not entitled to paid leave during disciplinary proceedings unless the TSC determines otherwise. The Commission may adjust the leave record or approve payment in lieu depending on the outcome.
📋 Key Obligations for Teachers on Leave
- Remain members of the Teaching Service and subject to the TSC Code of Conduct while on approved leave
- Must not engage in any employment or activity that conflicts with duties or obligations as a teacher
- Return to duty on the approved date and notify the Head Teacher and Provincial Division immediately if unable to do so
- Failure to return without prior approval is treated as absence without leave and may result in disciplinary action
- Continued unauthorised absence may lead to suspension from the payroll
- All leave applications must be submitted using the prescribed TSC Application for Leave form