Resignations from the Teaching Service
Teaching Service Commission · Papua New Guinea
Overview of Resignation
Resignation is a voluntary, formal termination of employment with the PNG Teaching Service. It carries legal, financial, and professional consequences governed by the Teaching Service Act 1988 and TSC policies.
How to Submit a Resignation
Use TSC Form 38 — Request for Retirement/Resignation. Submit through the Head Teacher to the Provincial Division of Education for forwarding to the TSC. Verbal resignations are not recognised.
Notice Period and Timing
For end-of-year resignations, notice must be lodged by end of August. Adequate notice allows the Division to arrange replacements and calculate final salary and entitlements before the last day of service.
Resignation Outside End of School Year
A minimum of one school term's notice is required for mid-year resignations to ensure continuity of student learning. The TSC determines the effective resignation date in consultation with the Provincial Division.
Resignation While on Approved Leave
The TSC may adjust the effective resignation date to earlier than the end of the leave period, approve payment in lieu of remaining leave, and declare the position vacant to allow timely replacement.
Resignation to Contest an Election
Teachers contesting National, Provincial, or LLG elections must resign 6–12 months before general election writs, or within 2 weeks for by-elections. Non-compliance may bar future re-admission to the Teaching Service.
Re-Appointment After Contesting an Election
Unsuccessful candidates may apply for re-appointment within two months of official results. Subject to medical clearance and position availability. Teacher is treated as having been on leave without pay during the period.
Resignation Under Section 122
From 1 January 2022 under TSC Determination No. 4 of 2021, teachers who resign under Section 122 cannot be readmitted to the Teaching Service. This is a permanent consequence — teachers must be fully aware before lodging.
Deemed Resignation
Under Section 24, extended absence without approved leave may result in deemed resignation. This carries fewer entitlements than a voluntary resignation. Re-admission requires meeting entry requirements and being below retirement age.
Final Salary and Entitlements
Final salary is calculated to the effective resignation date. Outstanding entitlements include accrued annual leave and pro-rata furlough leave where eligible. Submit notice well in advance to avoid payment delays.
Effect on Superannuation
Resigning teachers may be entitled to superannuation benefits based on years of contributions. Contact your superannuation provider directly. Resigning before retirement age may affect the amount and nature of benefits available.
Withdrawal of Resignation
A written request to withdraw a resignation must be submitted to the TSC as soon as possible before it takes effect. The Commission has discretion to accept or decline depending on whether administrative action has already been taken.
📋 Key Obligations Before Resignation Takes Effect
- Remain a full member of the Teaching Service until the effective date of resignation
- Continue performing full duties throughout the entire notice period
- Comply with all lawful instructions from supervisory officers
- Maintain attendance and performance standards without reduction
- Ensure proper handover of responsibilities to the Head Teacher or designated replacement
- Failure to fulfil duties during notice period may constitute misconduct and affect entitlements