Beginning your journey as a headteacher can feel both exciting and overwhelming. The weight of responsibility is real, but so is the opportunity to shape a thriving, values-driven school community.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out at once.
Drawing on over 30 years of experience in school leadership—and the honest reflections of new headteachers we’ve supported—we’ve compiled a few key principles to guide your first few weeks. These aren’t silver bullets, but we hope they’ll make the road ahead feel a little smoother.
1. Build a Collaborative Team
Strong relationships are the foundation of successful leadership. In your first term, prioritise getting to know your staff. Understand their strengths, listen to their experiences, and take time to observe the school through their eyes.
- Establish trust through open and honest communication
- Celebrate what’s already working well
- Begin to shape a shared vision, with your team, not for them
A team that feels valued and involved in shaping the school’s direction is far more likely to remain engaged and committed—even through challenging changes.
2. Set Clear and Fair Expectations
Staff appreciate clarity. They want to feel led, but also respected.
- Be transparent about your expectations—and open about your non-negotiables
- Involve staff in early decision-making, especially around culture and routines
- Make time for professional conversations that are supportive, not top-down
Setting a calm, consistent tone early on helps everyone feel safe, heard, and part of something bigger.
3. Balance the Demands with Self-Care
Leadership can be all-consuming—unless you’re deliberate about protecting time for yourself.
- Block time in your calendar for non-negotiable personal breaks
- Go for a walk, read, journal, or meet a friend—whatever replenishes you
- Protect your evenings when possible and schedule at least one "no-meeting" evening a week
Small acts of self-care build the stamina you need to lead well in the long term.
“It may sound simple, but a regular walk or coffee can do wonders for your clarity and energy.”
4. Stay in Regular Contact with Governors
Don’t wait for termly meetings to update your Governors. Instead, foster a relationship of open dialogue and trust.
- Share progress updates regularly
- Invite feedback on key developments
- Ask for support when needed—good Governors want to help
This connection helps create a support structure that understands your context, celebrates your wins, and backs you when challenges arise.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Progress isn’t always dramatic—but it is always worth noticing.
- Keep a weekly record of small achievements using a leadership planner
- Celebrate positive moments with your staff
- Share meaningful wins with Governors and mentors
Over time, these moments will remind you of how far you've come—and provide a motivating counterbalance to inevitable setbacks.
6. Ask for Help—It’s a Sign of Strength
There is no badge of honour in struggling alone. Every leader—new or experienced—needs support.
- Reach out to mentors, trusted colleagues, or leadership networks
- Share openly about the challenges you’re facing
- Access confidential support or coaching when needed
You are not alone. We’re here for you. And so is a community of leaders who’ve walked this path too.
If you’d find it helpful, you’re welcome to book a coaching call with Jonathan. Sometimes, just talking things through with someone who understands can make all the difference.
Final Thought: Be Kind to Yourself
You’re learning, leading, and growing all at once. Mistakes will happen. Uncertainty will come. But if you lead with integrity, curiosity, and care—you’re already doing better than you think.
Take care of yourself, so you can take care of your school.
We’re cheering you on.
With warmest wishes,
Jonathan and Lucy
Founders, HeadteacherChat
Explore more leadership support, coaching opportunities, and wellbeing resources in the
Further Resources for School Leaders
- Webinar Series on Leadership and Wellbeing
- School Leaders’ Work and Wellbeing Blog
- Join the Headteacher Chat Community – Access expert resources, checklists, and support from other school leaders
Updated: March 2025
© HeadteacherChat™. All rights reserved.
