At Headteacher Chat, we often reach out to our online community to gather real-world insights, and one of our favourite questions is: What advice would you give to someone considering headship?

This post brings together what experienced headteachers told us on Twitter, for anyone applying for a first headship or thinking about it.

For more support, tools, and leadership insights, explore the Headteacher Chat Community and read our latest articles on the Headteacher Chat Blog.

1. Find the Right School—One That Matches Your Values

“Know your values and find a school that aligns with them.” – @TheTattooedHeadteacher

Choosing the right school is as important as securing the role. When the school aligns with your beliefs and vision, leadership becomes not only more effective but more meaningful. Waiting for the right context is a worthwhile investment in long-term success.

2. Know What You’re Getting Into—And Stay Committed

“Be kind, be prepared, and make sure this is really what you want.” – @MissC

Headship is a serious commitment. Go in with your eyes open.

3. Build Your Support Network Before You Need It

“You’ll need support—make sure it’s in place before you start.” – @BrettaTownend

The headteacher role can be isolating. Building a network of trusted colleagues, mentors, and advisers is essential. It gives you people to lean on when the role becomes overwhelming and a sounding board when decisions are complex.

Join our Headteacher Chat Community to connect with like-minded leaders, share challenges, and access tailored advice.

4. Choose What’s Right—Not What’s Easy

“You won’t always like your choices, but do what’s right.” – @Tea4HeadTEAcher

Difficult decisions are part of the role. The best leaders stay grounded in integrity, even when the right path is the harder one. Your consistency and courage will define your leadership and build trust.

5. Lead with Both Toughness and Tenderness

“Leadership should be tough enough to challenge, but tender enough to encourage.” – Lyndsay McRoberts

Set high expectations and be kind while you hold people to them.

6. Learn to Delegate—And Trust Your Team

“You can’t do it all—delegate and empower your leaders.” – @MrSFarmer

You cannot manage everything alone. Delegating builds your team's capacity and frees you to focus on strategy.

7. Be Humble, Honest, and Trusting

“Leadership is about humility, honesty, and trust.” – Dr. Philip Purvis and Lee Hill

Being open about what you don't know builds trust with staff.

8. Ask Yourself: Why Do You Want to Be a Headteacher?

“Before applying, ask yourself: why?” – Primary Head

Understanding your own motivations is essential. Leadership for the right reasons—children, community, and improvement—will sustain you when the work is hard and the pressure is high.

Final Thoughts

We are grateful to everyone who contributed to this important conversation. Your honesty, experience, and encouragement help guide those who are about to take this significant step.

For further reading, advice, and leadership resources:

  • Visit the Headteacher Chat Blog for articles written by school leaders, for school leaders.
  • Connect with other aspiring and current heads in the Headteacher Chat Community. Share your questions, access resources, and find your support network.

Good luck. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.