MEMO to NUT REPRESENTATIVES

To: NUT School Representatives Date: 28/11/01

From: Martin Goold, Division Secretary

EARLY RETIREMENT on the Grounds of Efficiency, 2002

Early Retirement for reasons other than redundancy or ill health has virtually stopped, BUT there is an opportunity once a year for those over 55 to seek to retire early "on the Grounds of Efficiency". Only a very few retirements are granted.

The LEA has just written to headteachers (LMS Document 54/01 dated 12th November 2001) inviting the Governing Body to put forward for consideration cases for early retirement by staff at their school. The deadline for receipt of applications from Governing Bodies on behalf of individual staff, is December 17th.

Selection of successful applicants will be made by the LEA by the beginning of the Spring Term for retirement on 31st August 2002.

To stand a chance of success, the Governors must make a good case. The criteria are:

• Age 55 to 59, "those closer to age 60 will normally receive preference"
• the extent to which "any loss of efficiency by the postholder has or could have a detrimental effect on the functioning of the school as a whole"
• "The postholder's state of health, for which an assessment by the County's Occupational Health Physician will normally be required"
• Length of service with Suffolk County Council.

Reps are asked to ensure that any member who might wish to apply is made aware of this opportunity. Anyone interested should obtain a copy of the circular 54/01 from the Headteacher and ensure that the interested is registered. Members should contact the Union for further advice and assistance.

Please note that the alternative of "actuarially reduced" pensions is most definitely not recommended. Any member feeling tempted should contact the Union to discuss better options.