Balancing Leadership and Teaching: An Interview With an Assistant Headteacher
03 Feb, 20251-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- How to manage challenging conversations with staff.
- What a typical day looks like for an Assistant Headteacher.
- Advice for aspiring Assistant Headteachers.
- How to overcome difficulties in recruiting for SEND staff.
- Where the latest Assistant Headteacher jobs are and how to apply for them.
Curious about what it's like to step into a leadership role? Want to hear firsthand from someone who's taken on leadership responsibilities?
We had the opportunity to sit down with Assistant Headteacher, Heather Cross-Costello, to uncover an honest inside look at the challenges and rewards of a leadership role in education.
Heather began her career in education in 2017, working as a Spanish Teacher, and through her hard work and dedication, has worked her way up to the role of an Assistant Headteacher.
In this exclusive interview, Heather shares how she balances leadership, teaching and staff development while creating a school environment where all students can thrive.
What does a typical day look like for you as an Assistant Headteacher?
No two days are the same in my role but as a morning person, I like to start my day early, arriving at work by 7am. I typically begin my mornings either by using the school gym or finalising preparations for the day's lessons.
At 8.30am, I welcome our students as they arrive, greeting them at the door and supporting their transition into a focused and productive day of learning.
When I'm not teaching, my time is dedicated to working with colleagues on Teacher development initiatives or participating in quality assurance activities to ensure the highest standards of education.
I aim to finish my workday by 4pm, allowing me time to rest and recharge for the next day.
If you could implement one change in education immediately, what would it be and why?
I would advocate for rethinking the traditional approach to exams, perhaps even replacing them entirely. I believe students could thrive if given alternative opportunities to demonstrate their newly acquired knowledge in more diverse and meaningful ways.
At the very least, I would support a shift towards modular assessments rather than the current linear format.
What advice would you give to someone who is aspiring to become an Assistant Headteacher?
The best advice I can offer is to spend time with school leaders and actively learn about all aspects of school leadership. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the various elements involved is invaluable for your development.
I also highly recommend pursuing a National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL). This course provides essential insights into what it takes to manage a school effectively and prepares you for leadership responsibilities.
Additionally, if the opportunity arises, serving as a school governor can offer valuable exposure to the inner workings of a school, including key areas such as staffing and financial management.
This experience can significantly enhance your understanding of school operations and leadership.
Looking back on your journey as an Assistant Headteacher, if you had the chance to start over, is there anything you would approach differently? If so, what would you change and why?
There is nothing that I would approach differently. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunities that have led me to my role as an Assistant Headteacher. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside strong and inspirational leaders who have supported my growth, both as a classroom Teacher and as a middle leader.
I am also grateful to work within a trust that places a strong emphasis on staff development, creating an environment that encourages continuous professional growth and learning.
What strategies have you found most effective in managing challenging conversations with staff?
One of the key areas I focused on developing when I became an Assistant Headteacher was managing challenging conversations with staff. While these discussions can still feel uncomfortable, I have come to realise that prioritising the best interests of students is of utmost importance.
I have learnt to approach these conversations with empathy and professionalism, ensuring that staff members feel respected and supported while addressing necessary concerns.
Have you faced any difficulties recruiting staff for SEND-specific roles, and how do you work to overcome these?
Like many educational settings across the UK, recruitment remains a significant challenge. To address this, we have collaborated with other schools and partnered with recruitment agencies to successfully fill essential roles and ensure the continuity of high-quality education.
What initiatives has your school implemented to support students’ mental health?
I am proud of the comprehensive wellbeing package we provide for our students. We have worked diligently to create a culture that encourages openness and honesty about wellbeing. This has been achieved through a strong PSHE curriculum and the recruitment of an exceptional pastoral team.
Additionally, we work closely with a range of external agencies to ensure a wide array of support is available for our staff, students and and parents!
What unique strengths and qualities do you bring to your role as an Assistant Headteacher?
I bring a great deal of enthusiasm to everything that I do and approach challenges with a positive, can-do attitude.
I am also highly receptive to feedback and value working with my colleagues to create a supportive and enjoyable work environment for everyone.
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 an Assistant 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
Share your experience
Every individual brings a unique set of experiences, thoughts, and insights to the table. We believe in giving a voice to a community of professionals to inspire positive change and champion reform in the education sector.
If you work in the education sector and would like to share your own personal and professional experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Perhaps you have a different perspective, could offer a fresh angle, or want to challenge assumptions.
Simply reach out to our Head of Content, Nicole Sherwood, to discuss a collaboration which makes your voice count.
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
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