An Assistant Headteacher's Data-Driven Approach to Tailoring Teaching Strategies
12 Mar, 20251-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- How to ensure the curriculum meets the needs of all students.
- How to stay updated with the latest changes and advancements in education.
- What a typical day looks like for an Assistant Headteacher.
- How to navigate budget constraints while ensuring quality education.
- Where the latest Assistant Headteacher jobs are and how to apply for them.
Curious to know what the role of an Assistant Headteacher looks like and what it takes to succeed in this rewarding career choice? We recently spoke with Assistant Headteacher, Matthew Tyers, who has worked in the education sector for thirteen years.
Matthew has worked as a Supply Teacher, Pastoral Manager, Teacher, Cover Supervisor, PE Teacher and Associate Assistant Headteacher before finding his passion in school leadership as an Assistant Headteacher.
By using assessment data to identify students areas for improvement and tailoring teaching strategies accordingly, Matthew ensures that the curriculum meets the needs of all students.
During this interview, you’ll discover how Assistant Headteachers navigate the demands of the role whilst ensuring that all staff and students feel supported.
What does a typical day look like for you as an Assistant Headteacher?
As an Assistant Headteacher responsible for behaviour and attitudes at my academy, my typical day is dynamic and involves a variety of tasks aimed at maintaining a positive and conducive learning environment.
My morning usually starts with greeting students and parents. This helps set a positive tone for the day and allows me to address any immediate behavioural issues as students arrive.
I then conduct walkthroughs and classroom observations to monitor student behaviour and engagement. This helps me identify any patterns or issues that need addressing and provides an opportunity to support Teachers in managing classroom behaviour.
In the mornings I hold meetings with Teachers and support staff to discuss individual student behaviour plans, share strategies for managing challenging behaviour and provide professional development on behaviour management techniques.
My lunch break is spent in the playground and dining areas, supervising students and ensuring that lunchtime runs smoothly. This is also a good time to interact with students informally and build positive relationships.
After lunch, I meet with students who have been referred for behavioural issues. This involves discussing their behaviour, understanding the underlying causes and working with them to develop strategies for improvement. I also communicate with parents to keep them informed and involved in their child's progress.
At the end of the day I debrief with the leadership team to review the day's events, discuss any incidents and plan for the following day. I also follow up on any outstanding issues and ensure that all necessary documentation is completed.
I’m often present during student dismissal to ensure a safe and orderly end to the school day. This is another opportunity to interact with parents and address any concerns they may have.
How do you stay updated with the latest changes and advancements in education?
I stay updated by regularly attending professional development workshops, conferences and webinars. I also subscribe to several educational journals and follow key thought leaders in education, on social media.
Networking with other educators and participating in online forums and discussion groups also helps me stay informed about the latest trends and best practices.
How do you navigate budget constraints while ensuring quality education?
Navigating budget constraints requires careful planning and prioritisation. I work closely with the school’s finance team to identify areas where we can reduce costs without compromising the quality of education.
This often involves seeking alternative funding sources, such as grants and partnerships, and making strategic decisions about resource allocation. I also encourage staff to share innovative ideas for cost-saving measures.
How has the role of an Assistant Headteacher changed since you began your career and where do you see it heading in the next 5-10 years?
Since I began my career, the role of an Assistant Headteacher has evolved to include a greater emphasis on data-driven decision-making and the integration of technology in the classroom.
In the next 5-10 years, I see the role continuing to evolve with a focus on personalised learning, mental health support and creating a more inclusive school environment. The increasing importance of digital literacy and the need to prepare students for a rapidly changing world will also shape the future of this role.
Have you faced any difficulties recruiting staff for SEND-specific roles and how do you work to overcome these?
Recruiting staff for SEND-specific roles can be challenging due to the specialised skills required. To overcome these difficulties, we actively promote our school as an inclusive and supportive workplace.
We also invest in professional development opportunities for our staff and build partnerships with universities and training providers to create a pipeline of qualified candidates. Additionally, we offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract and retain top talent.
How do you ensure that the curriculum meets the needs of all students, including those who excel and those who struggle?
Ensuring that the curriculum meets the needs of all students involves differentiating instruction and providing a range of learning opportunities.
We use assessment data to identify students’ strengths and areas for improvement and then tailor our teaching strategies accordingly. We also offer enrichment programs for high-achieving students and additional support for those who need it.
Collaboration with parents and specialists helps us create individualised learning plans that address each student’s unique needs.
What recent changes or trends in the education system do you think have been most impactful and why?
One of the most impactful trends in recent years has been the increased focus on mental health and wellbeing in schools. Recognising the importance of supporting students’ emotional and psychological needs has led to the implementation of various programs and initiatives aimed at promoting mental health.
Additionally, the integration of technology in education has transformed teaching and learning, making it more interactive and accessible.
Is there anything within the education system that you hope will change in 2025 and if so why?
In 2025, I hope to see a greater emphasis on personalised learning, where education is tailored to the individual needs and interests of each student. This approach can help students stay engaged and motivated, leading to better educational outcomes.
I also hope for increased funding for schools, particularly in underserved areas, to ensure that all students have access to high-quality education and resources.
What unique strengths and qualities do you bring to your role as an Assistant Headteacher?
I bring a combination of strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of educational pedagogy and a passion for student success. My ability to communicate effectively with staff, students and parents helps to create a positive school environment.
Additionally, my experience in curriculum development and my commitment to continuous professional development ensures that I am always striving to improve the educational experience for our students.
Assistant Headteacher jobs
If you’re searching for your next Assistant Headteacher position, why not take a look at the latest Assistant 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
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Simply reach out to our Head of Content, Nicole Sherwood, to discuss a collaboration which makes your voice count.
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