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What does a Head Teacher do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A head teacher is the most senior teacher in a school. They are responsible for the day-to-day running of the school, including its teaching and non-teaching staff, and they also have a strategic role in planning and managing resources.

Head Teacher job duties include:

  • Plan, direct, and coordinate activities of workers in an educational establishment
  • Interpret and enforce policies and procedures
  • Maintain student discipline and promote a positive learning environment
  • Select textbooks and instructional materials
  • Observe and evaluate teachers and teaching methods
  • Meet with parents or guardians to discuss their children's progress
  • Confer with school counselors to discuss individual students' needs
  • Serve as a liaison between the school and the community
  • Develop and implement educational programs
  • Supervise support staff such as teachers, librarians, and counselors

Head Teacher Job Requirements

A head teacher is the most senior teacher and leader of a school. In the United States, the job requirements for a head teacher vary by state. Most states require a head teacher to have a bachelor's degree in education and a teaching license. Some states also require a master's degree in education or administration. Head teachers typically have several years of teaching experience before becoming a head teacher.

Head Teacher Skills

  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Organizational
  • Planning
  • Problem solving
  • Public speaking
  • Research
  • Writing
  • Budgeting
  • Curriculum development
  • Hiring and firing
  • Instructional design

Related: Top Head Teacher Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Head Teacher

There is no one specific path to becoming a head teacher, but there are a few things that will help you on the way. Firstly, it is important to get experience in teaching and leadership roles. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be an effective head teacher. Secondly, it is helpful to have a good understanding of educational policy and administration. This will allow you to navigate the bureaucracy of the education system and make decisions that are in the best interests of your students. Finally, it is essential to be able to build relationships with stakeholders such as parents, teachers, and administrators. This will ensure that everyone is working together towards the same goal of providing a quality education for all students. If you can demonstrate these qualities, you will be well on your way to becoming a head teacher.

Related: Head Teacher Resume Example

Related: Head Teacher Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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