[Question] Teacher takes sick leave during probation

[Abeille Ruche]

Good day

I employed a teacher in January. She has taken sick leave beyond the allocated number of days for probation. She has also not fulfilled her responsibilities regarding due care for one of the learners in her class. Can we terminate her contract?

[Dave A]

Here are some questions you may be expected to answer -

She has taken sick leave beyond the allocated number of days for probation.

How long is the probation period?
How many sick days have you got allocated for this period?
Has she presented medical certificates for the absences?
What is the medical prognosis?
Is it an incapacity issue?

She has also not fulfilled her responsibilities regarding due care for one of the learners in her class. Can we terminate her contract?

I take it she is still on probation.
Why do you have a probationary period in the first place?
Have you counselled her and given her an opportunity to improve?