Stepping into headship is a bold and rewarding move—one filled with purpose, challenge, and growth. But it’s also a step that requires clarity, resilience, and preparation. 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 wisdom from experienced headteachers who’ve generously shared their reflections and strategies on Twitter. Whether you're applying for your first headship or considering it for the future, their advice is grounded, practical, and deeply human.
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. Nick Hart reminds us that 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. It requires emotional stamina, strategic thinking, and clarity of purpose. Those who succeed are often those who go in with open eyes, a clear heart, and a readiness to serve.
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
Great headteachers are clear, decisive, and confident—but also kind, compassionate, and encouraging. The most effective leadership balances high expectations with humanity and humility.
6. Learn to Delegate—And Trust Your Team
“You can’t do it all—delegate and empower your leaders.” – @MrSFarmer
Trying to manage everything alone is not sustainable. Delegation is not weakness—it’s a sign of strong leadership. Trusting your team empowers them, builds capacity, and allows you to focus on strategy and vision.
7. Be Humble, Honest, and Trusting
“Leadership is about humility, honesty, and trust.” – Dr. Philip Purvis and Lee Hill
These foundational values create strong school cultures. Being transparent, vulnerable, and respectful helps to cultivate trust and positive working relationships across the school community.
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.
If you’re thinking about applying for headship, or if you’ve just been appointed, take the time to reflect on what you’ve read. Talk to others. Build your support network. And lead with purpose.
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 on your leadership journey. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.