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6 Of The Most Memorable Headteachers On Screen
24 Mar, 20251-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- 6 of the most memorable Headteachers on screen.
- Why they are memorable Headteachers.
- Where the latest Headteacher jobs are and how to apply for them.
Want to find out who the most memorable Headteachers on screen are? In this blog we’re exploring six of the most memorable Headteachers on screen and why they are memorable.
Each of the Headteachers are firm but fair and make it their priority to support their students both personally and academically.
From Harry Potter to The Simpsons, all of these Headteachers are memorable in their own right.
6 of the most memorable Headteachers on screen
- Principal Joe Clark - Lean on Me.
- Mr Humphrey Barclay - Waterloo Road.
- Miss Trunchbull - Matilda.
- Professor Dumbledore - Harry Potter.
- Principal Seymour Skinner - The Simpsons.
- Mr Richard Belding - Saved by the Bell.
Principal Joe Clark - Lean on Me
Principal Joe Clark, played by Morgan Freeman in the Lean on Me film which was produced in 1989, was memorable for his approach in turning around troubled school, Eastside High School.
Principal Joe Clark was a tough but caring leader and he was focused on encouraging school pride and good behaviour. He was determined to improve the lives of his students and refused to back down in the face of difficulty.
Mr Humphrey Barclay - Waterloo Road
Mr Humphrey Barclay, who was the Headteacher in Waterloo Road before Dame Stella Drake took over, was known for his empathetic and student focused leadership style. He was a Headteacher who went above and beyond to be there for his students through personal challenges, academic struggles and difficulties at home.
He had the ability to balance order with empathy and always gave students a second chance which made him a beloved leader to his students and viewers. Mr Humphrey Barclay was a great example of what a Headteacher should be, firm but fair and always putting his students' needs first.
Miss Trunchbull - Matilda
The last person you would probably expect to see on this list is Miss Trunchbull, the cruel Headmistress of Crunchem Hall from Matilda, a book by Roald Dahl.
However, we’re taking a look at her bad traits and why she is the perfect example of a bad school leader.
Miss Trunchbull was cruel, lacked empathy, abused her power and terrorised students and staff alike, traits that are the complete opposite of how a Headteacher should behave.
Miss Honey, who eventually took over as Headteacher, however was gentle, caring, nurturing, intelligent and kind. Miss Honey became a mentor and advocate for education for all students, showing what an excellent Headteacher looks like.
Miss Honey always went above and beyond to support her students both in their education and personal lives, making her the perfect person to take over Miss Trunchbull’s role.
Professor Dumbledore - Harry Potter
Professor Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry from the Harry Potter book and film series, was a wise and compassionate leader.
He was particularly memorable as a mentor to Harry Potter in his battle against Voldermort.
Originally starting out as a Teacher, Professor Dumbledore was made the Headmaster of Hogwarts due to his exceptional approach towards students and held the title for 40 years. Dumbledore had strong values, was brave and stood up for the school.
Professor Dumbledore was kind and his deep care for his students made him a beloved character. He was one of the most powerful wizards to ever live and was considered by many as the greatest Headmaster to ever grace Hogwarts.
Principal Seymour Skinner - The Simpsons
Seymour Skinner, the Principal of Springfield Elementary School in the TV show The Simpsons, is known for struggling to control the school and its students, especially the rebellious Bart Simpson. Over the course of nearly 800 episodes, Principal Seymour Skinner has constantly battled against inadequate resources in a crumbling school.
Though his old-fashioned approach often puts him at odds with his students, he is a leader who genuinely cares about his students and Springfield Elementary School.
Over time, we have seen more of Principal Seymour Skinner’s vulnerable side, from his struggles with his overbearing mother to his complicated past. These personal battles, alongside his commitment to education, showed us that he is a dedicated Principal who really cares about making a difference in his students’ lives.
Mr Richard Belding - Saved by the Bell
Mr Richard Belding was the Principal of Bayside High School from the American teen show Saved By The Bell that ran from 1989 to 1993.
Mr Richard Belding was a memorable Headteacher as he was approachable and fun. Mr Richard Belding had a special connection with his students and made it clear that his priority was their education and wellbeing, all which are traits of a good Headteacher.
While he still enforced rules, he did it in a way that balanced discipline and understanding, often giving students a second chance.
Headteacher jobs
If you’re searching for your next Headteacher position, why not take a look at the latest Headteacher jobs, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available.
Struggling to recruit a Headteacher?
As a specialist Headteacher recruitment agency, we support mainstream and SEND schools, Multi Academy Trusts, Alternative Provisions and Pupil Referral Units (PRU) with their recruitment needs.
If you’re struggling to fill a Headteacher vacancy, why not get in touch with one of our team to see how we can help?
- North of the UK - Jamie Heath
- South of the UK - Dane Matthews
Meet Jamie Heath
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Established in 2017, we’re an award winning and progressive recruitment agency based in the heart of the North West. Our reputation is built on trust, expertise and an unwavering commitment to exceed expectations.
In 2024, we were named Recruitment Agency of the Year at the prestigious Recruiter Awards, an accolade we are extremely proud of.
We operate in two sectors:
In eleven specialisms:
Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing
Corporate Functions & Business Support
