A headteacher, also known as a principal, is the senior leader in a school, responsible for managing staff, overseeing the curriculum, and ensuring a safe and productive learning environment for students. The role involves strategic planning, setting school policies, managing budgets, and maintaining high standards of teaching and behaviour. Headteachers are also the main point of contact between the school, parents, and the wider community. They play a key part in recruiting staff, supporting teachers in their development, and leading school improvement initiatives. This career requires strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and a deep commitment to education.
Headteachers in the UK typically earn between £50,000 and £120,000 per year, depending on the size and location of the school.
There are approximately 25,000 headteacher roles across schools in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Headteachers often work more than 40 hours per week, with responsibilities extending beyond the standard school day.
Leads and manages a primary school, overseeing staff, pupils, and the curriculum for children aged 4 to 11.
Responsible for the overall leadership and management of a secondary school, guiding pupils aged 11 to 18 and supporting teaching staff.
Heads a school dedicated to supporting pupils with special educational needs, ensuring they receive tailored education and care.
Obtain a degree in a subject taught in schools, or a degree in education.
Most headteachers start as teachers. You need a bachelor’s degree, typically in a National Curriculum subject or in Education itself. This can be a BA or BSc with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), or a degree followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification.
Complete Initial Teacher Training (ITT) to obtain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Routes include a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), School-Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT), or Teach First. QTS is essential to teach in state schools in England and Wales.
Work as a teacher to build experience and develop classroom management skills.
Most aspiring headteachers spend several years teaching, often progressing to roles like Head of Department or Year Leader. This experience is crucial for understanding school life and pupil needs.
Apply for roles such as Head of Department, Head of Year, or Subject Leader.
Middle leadership roles allow you to develop skills in managing teams, overseeing curriculum areas, and working with senior leadership. Demonstrating success in these roles is important for further progression.
Move into senior roles such as Deputy Headteacher or Assistant Headteacher.
Senior leaders play a key role in whole-school management, policy development, and working with governors. You may lead on areas like safeguarding, curriculum, or pupil achievement.
Undertake professional development, such as the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).
The NPQH is a government-recognised qualification that prepares you for headship. It covers leadership, school improvement, and strategic management, and is highly regarded when applying for headteacher roles.
Update your CV and write a strong personal statement focused on your leadership experience and vision.
Tailor your application to the specific school. Highlight achievements, leadership impact, and how you align with the school’s values. Strong references from senior colleagues are essential.
Prepare for interviews and assessment activities, such as presentations and data analysis tasks.
Headteacher interviews often involve panel interviews with governors, staff, and sometimes pupils. You may be asked to lead an assembly or analyse school performance data as part of the selection process.
Lead your school, manage staff, and drive improvements for pupils and the community.
As a new headteacher, you will set the strategic direction, ensure pupil safety, and work to raise standards. Building positive relationships with staff, pupils, parents, and the community is crucial for success.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Headteacher/Principal. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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