Shared Parental Leave - Process Guide for Headteachers - March 2026

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Introduction

What is Shared Parental Leave?

Shared Parental Leave (SPL) allows eligible parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and up to 37 weeks of statutory pay following the birth or adoption of a child.

SPL gives parents flexibility to care for their child during the first year by allowing them to:

•    Take leave at the same time.
•    Take leave in separate blocks.
•    Alternate periods of work and leave to suit family needs.