This prob is irrelevant cos I am in the public system. With my 2nd pg I was on a 1yr contract. I had 12 weeks pd mat leave which couldn't be taken at half pay. I planned to work till 38wks, had Drs certificates from 34wks but was mentally exhausted and emothional, so took 1 weeks sick leave and commenced my leave at 38 weeks, which was term 2 school hols. I had all of term 3 off and returned first day of term 4.

With my 3rd I had a permanent position and had the option of Family leave, which is 12wks pd + my postition is held for 7yrs in lieu for me. I can return at the beginning of any yr as long as I let the school know by Nov the yr before (essentially I can return with a terms notice if I really want to). I actually was 32wks end of term 4 but returned first day of term 1, exactly 38wks, so I got pd all my holiday pay, which was great.

After the 7yrs I can also apply for leave without pay which is what I intend to do, so I am home for my last childs prep yr.

Hope yours is sorted out soon. It is better to leave at the end of a term but you don't have to and the longer you work bf the birth the longer you get to be home with your bub.

Cheers michelle