Can You Become a Headteacher Without Being a Teacher?

In this blog, you will learn:

• If you can become a Headteacher without being a Teacher. 
• The skills that make a great Headteacher. 
• Where the latest Headteacher jobs are and how to apply for them. 

Headteachers play a crucial role in managing a school and leading it to success but can you become a Headteacher without being a Teacher first? 

We’re uncovering whether you need teaching experience before becoming a Headteacher and the skills that make a good Headteacher! 

Can you become a Headteacher without being a Teacher?

While it is possible to become a Headteacher with no teaching experience, most Headteachers start their career as a Teacher and work their way up through leadership roles. 

Many schools will prefer Headteachers with teaching experience as they will have knowledge of curriculum development, challenges within a school, classroom dynamics and student needs, which are essential for effectively managing a school. 

It’s very common for the Deputy Headteacher or Associate Headteacher to step up and take on the role of the Headteacher as they have a strong understanding of the schools operations.

What skills make a great Headteacher?

Qualities that make a great Headteacher:

• Organisational skills. 
• Strong communication skills.
• Leadership skills. 

Organisational skills

Headteachers are responsible for managing school budgets, student welfare, developing strategies to improve the schools performance and resource management, amongst other duties. Having strong organisational skills are essential for Headteachers to manage their time and responsibilities effectively.

Strong communication skills

Headteachers must have strong communication skills to clearly define their visions and expectations, build positive relationships with students, staff and parents and better manage challenging situations. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities to make informed decisions. 

Leadership skills

A Headteacher must have strong leadership skills as they are essentially responsible for leading the school to success. Strong leadership skills help Headteachers make strategic decisions, ensure high quality teaching standards and build a supportive school environment.

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:

Private Sector

Public Sector 

In eleven specialisms:

Accountancy & Finance

Education & SEND

Construction, Trades & Labour

Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing

Housing

Corporate Functions & Business Support

HR & Workforce Development

IT & Digital

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Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering