Chapter 6: Entering Headship

Entering Headship

People entering headship have to reconcile their ambition with the reality they find in their new school, a process that may require them to adjust their behaviours and attitudes to match their new circumstances. Most people find the early stages of a new job challenging as they come to terms with the demands and expectations of a new workplace environment. The process is more difficult for headteachers who are expected to be capable and effective immediately on taking up post. After all, that is why they have been appointed, isn't it?

We already know from the discussion in Chapter 2 that entry into headship is potentially prone to a number of expectations about you as formal leader of the school. Hopefully you will ...