Research and analysis

Experiences of new headteachers in cities

Read about the experiences of 6 new headteachers in different urban contexts.

From:
National College for Teaching and Leadership
Published
1 November 2011

Documents

Experiences of new headteachers in cities

PDF, 1.09 MB, 113 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email alternative.formats@education.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Experiences of new headteachers in cities - executive summary

PDF, 238 KB, 6 pages

This file may not be suitable for users of assistive technology.

Request an accessible format.
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email alternative.formats@education.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

The 6 new headteachers talk about the:

  • importance of preparation for headship, including the good professional development and the value of previous experience as deputy or assistant headteachers
  • loneliness and isolation of the role
  • role of mentoring and networks
  • practice of headship and the chief demands on new headteachers’ time and attention
  • views of NPQH and teaching schools

Recommendations include:

  • helping headteachers to prepare for headship more effectively
  • making better use of the time leading up to the new headship
  • enabling the prospective headteacher to spend time in the new school to gather information and build relationships with staff and governors
  • continuing support for headteachers into their second year in post.

Detailed case studies of six new headteachers are included in the report alongside 4 vignettes of more experienced headteachers.

Updates to this page

Published 1 November 2011

Sign up for emails or print this page