Tricky business of being a Depute Head

Anyone thinking of becoming a Depute Head Teacher might be advised to first enrol in circus school.

Not for the lion taming or clowning around – though these might come in handy in the classroom – but for the balancing acts of plate-spinning, juggling and walking tightropes.

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It’s no secret a good Depute Head has to be a bit of an all-rounder: part leader, teacher, curriculum whizz, assembly-giver, school show co-ordinator, counsellor, and expedition leader.

Choosing this new role usually follows a stint as a Principal Teacher. It’s often a first step up the management ladder and is vital for those with a headship in their sights.

Teachers moving up to a Depute Role usually want to have a greater, more direct influence on pupils, the running of a school and its long-term goals.

Achieving this means a combination of teaching, management and leadership.

One day a Depute could be sitting in on staff interviews, the next teaching maths to a P6 class. In between there could be a probationer to advise and a flagging timeserver to motivate.

But like any manager in any sector, they’re not out there on their own – they have support and a mentor in the shape of the Head Teacher, continually guiding them.

A successful Depute Head has to complement their Head Teacher. The best Deputes fill any gaps in their boss’s skillset.

For example, if you have a passion for early years teaching or a keen interest in IT, you can supplement a Head Teacher’s weaker spots.

The personality mix needs to be right too.

A Depute spends a good part of their working day with the Head so the importance of getting the relationship right can’t be underestimated. This is a bit like a marriage – it demands dedication, respect, trust and loyalty from both sides to work.

And, this is where the ability to walk a tightrope comes in. As Depute you’re the spokesman for the rest of the school staff while simultaneously firefighting for the Head.

Teachers considering some of the Depute Head vacancies on s1jobs might be advised to shadow a member of their senior leadership team to get a true picture of what’s involved.

Ultimately, being a Depute Head is to be part of the backbone of a successful school, with all the professional challenges and rewards it brings.

If you can ride a unicycle while juggling, you’ll be brilliant!

 

You can find all the latest Education vacancies on s1jobs.com