You may choose your adoption leave to begin on either:
the date on which the child is placed with you for adoption
a specific date no earlier than 14 days before the expected date of placement
Where you are adopting a child from overseas, you may choose your adoption leave to begin on either:
the date the child enters the UK
a specific date no later than 28 days after the child enters the UK
You should specify which option you wish to follow when notifying your manager and the People and Culture Office of your intention to take adoption leave.