Do Headteacher Jobs Have To Be Advertised Nationally?

In this blog, you will learn:

• If Headteacher jobs need to be advertised nationally. 
• When the best times to get Headteacher jobs are.
• If Headteachers always need to be recruited externally.
• If a clerk should be present for Headteacher recruitment.
• The benefits of working with a recruitment agency. 
• Where the latest Headteacher jobs are and how to apply for them. 

If you’re a Headteacher seeking a new role, navigating the job market and recruitment process can be challenging. Understanding where and when to apply for Headteacher jobs can be a minefield, but that’s where we come in to help. 

In this blog we’re exploring everything you need to know from the best time to apply for Headteacher jobs to if Headteacher jobs need to be advertised nationally. 

Do Headteacher jobs need to be advertised nationally?

While it’s not a legal requirement to advertise Headteacher jobs nationally, schools are encouraged to do so to show transparency and equal opportunities. 

Advertising Headteacher jobs nationally can also be beneficial as it attracts a wider pool of candidates and you’ll find that by doing so, you will reach individuals with more experience and suitability to the role. 

When are the best times to apply for Headteacher jobs?

The best time to apply for Headteacher jobs is between February and June as schools will be advertising vacancies in time for the new academic year. 

While Headteacher vacancies may appear throughout the year, the cut off date for Headteachers to hand their notice in, to end employment in August, is the 30th April so most vacancies will appear around this time of year. 

If you’re seeking a new Headteacher role, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye out all year round as you wouldn’t want to miss any opportunities. 

The recruitment process for a Headteacher is usually fast paced so it’s best practice to apply for a role as soon as you see it. 

Do Headteachers always need to be recruited externally? 

While Headteachers don’t always need to be recruited externally, a lot of schools choose to recruit external staff. With that being said, some schools do choose to recruit internally and in most cases this would be the Assistant Headteacher or Deputy Headteacher. 

Some schools prefer to recruit internally as their staff understand the schools culture and possess a deeper understanding of the school's operations, curriculum and areas for improvement. This makes it a smoother transition and less time is spent on training. 

However, the decision to recruit externally or internally can depend on the needs of the school and the quality of candidates available. 

Should a clerk be present for Headteacher recruitment?

Yes, a clerk should always be present during Headteacher recruitment to ensure that the process is transparent and fair, compliant with regulations and adheres to government policies and employment laws. 

While the governing body makes the final decision, the clerk’s presence helps to uphold the integrity of the process and make informed decisions. 

The benefits of working with a recruitment agency to find a Headteacher job

If you’re looking for a new role as a Headteacher, working with a Headteacher recruitment agency can be extremely beneficial. At Spencer Clarke Group, our team of Headteacher recruitment specialists understand the education sector inside out and can match you to a fulfilling Headteacher job that aligns with your skills, experience and aspirations. 

The support and expertise of a Recruitment Consultant can help to take the weight off your shoulders and fit a job search around a busy working schedule.

We also offer a range of exclusive opportunities that may not be advertised elsewhere. This is a brilliant way to give you a competitive edge over other candidates. 

Headteacher insights

Explore our latest Headteacher blogs to gain valuable insights and expert advice:

• A Headteacher’s Perspective on Navigating School Budget Constraints.
• ‘Technology Plays a Crucial Role in SEND Support’: An Interview With a Headteacher.
• What Makes a Good Headteacher?
• Questions A Headteacher Should Ask During An Interview.

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

Property & Asset Management  

Planning, Development & Regeneration 

Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering