Headteacher Recruitment
The privilege and responsibility for the appointment of a Headteacher rests with the Governing Body or the Multi Academy Trust
The privilege and responsibility for the appointment of a Headteacher rests with the Governing Body or the Multi Academy Trust
The Diocese must be involved in headteacher recruitment from the outset to ensure the school’s Christian vision and values are upheld throughout the process. Early engagement enables the Diocese to provide expert guidance on statutory requirements, best practice, and the development of role specifications that reflect the school’s ethos. This collaboration strengthens partnerships between the governing body and the church, reduces risks of misalignment, and supports the appointment of leaders who will sustain and promote the distinctive character of the school.
Please invite the Diocesan Director of Education or their representative to support and advise throughout the process—beginning immediately after a resignation or the creation of a new post.
We provide a step-by-step guide to help governors and academy trusts manage recruitment with confidence.
Our model documents are designed as guides and should be adapted to fit your school’s context.
Please be advised: Job Descriptions and Person Specifications should not be used in full—shortlisting against too many criteria is impractical.
Local Authorities may offer their own models, but these often lack elements specific to church schools. For this reason, the Diocese strongly recommends using our models to ensure your recruitment process reflects the distinctive character of a Church of England school.
Need help tailoring these documents? Your Diocese representative will be happy to work with you to adjust them for your school’s context.
Church School advertisement statements
Interview tasks and activities
Collective Worship observation record
This school leadership development course will help you to integrate your personal philosophy and values with your professional practice.
