SSP Policy

Policy Statement

Kent Teaching Solutions LTD (“the Agency”) is committed to supporting the health of its supply teachers while ensuring continuity of education for schools across Kent. This policy outlines the procedures for reporting absence and updated eligibility for sick pay in line with the Employment Rights Act 2025.

 

  1. Notification Procedure
    To ensure the Agency can arrange cover for your assigned school, you must follow these steps:
  • Initial Notification:  Agency workers are required to notify KTS on the first day of sickness.

To enable KTS to find a suitable replacement and/or notify the client school you will contact your dedicated consultant at Kent Teaching Solutions as soon as possible, ideally by 7:00 AM on the first day of absence.

  1. Certification Requirements
  • Self-Certification (Days 1–7): For any absence lasting up to 7 calendar days, you must complete a self-certification form upon your return to work.
  • Fit Notes (Day 8 onwards): If your sickness exceeds 7 calendar days, you must provide a “Fit Note” from a qualified healthcare professional.
  1. Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – Effective 6 April 2026
    As a supply teacher, your entitlement to sick pay is governed by statutory regulations. Key updates effective from April 2026 include:
  • Day-One Eligibility: SSP is payable from the first day of your sickness absence.
  • No Lower Earnings Limit: All eligible workers who have started an assignment are entitled to SSP, regardless of average weekly earnings.
  • Qualifying Days: SSP is paid for the “qualifying days” you were scheduled to work under your current assignment.
  • Payment Rate: You will receive the statutory rate or 80% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.