Separation from the Teaching Service (Exit)
Teaching Service Commission · Papua New Guinea
Retirement from the Teaching Service
Teachers may retire from age 55, with compulsory retirement at 60. Retirement notice must be submitted using TSC Form 38 to the Provincial Division of Education by end of August to allow staffing and benefits to be processed in time.
Retirement Outside End of School Year
Teachers retiring mid-year must give at least one school term's notice. The date is coordinated with the TSC and aligned where possible to a term end. Pro-rata leave entitlements require a written request to the TSC Chairman.
Retirement While on Approved Leave
If a teacher gives retirement notice while on approved leave, the TSC determines the effective retirement date and may approve payment in lieu of remaining leave. The position may be declared vacant to allow timely replacement.
Entitlement to Furlough Leave
Retiring teachers may be eligible for full or pro-rata furlough leave based on length of service and leave history. This long-service benefit is governed by the Teaching Service Act. Timely application ensures benefits are processed without delay.
Retirement by the Teaching Service Commission
The TSC may retire a teacher deemed incapable of performing duties due to physical or psychological incapacity, or transfer them to a suitable lower-level role. Teachers may appeal in writing to the Minister within one month of notification.
Resignation from the Teaching Service
Voluntary resignations must be submitted via TSC Form 38 to the Provincial Division. End-of-year resignations require lodgement by end of August to allow replacement planning and calculation of final salary and entitlements.
Resignation While on Approved Leave
The TSC may adjust the resignation date of a teacher who resigns while on approved leave, making it effective earlier, and may approve payment in lieu of remaining leave. The position may be declared vacant for timely replacement.
Resignation to Contest an Election
Teachers contesting National, Provincial, or LLG elections must resign 6–12 months before general election writs are issued, 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, the teacher is treated as having been on leave without pay from resignation to re-appointment.