The first year of headship: a cross-comparison of the experiences, challenges and successes, expressed by newly appointed headteachers during their first year in post

This chapter considers the outcomes of a study of the firsthand experiences of three newly appointed headteachers during their first year in post, focuses not only on challenges, but on successes also. The interviews were transcribed, and a thematic analysis of the data was carried out. The following themes emerged from the analysis: understanding of the role of the headteacher, reflections on themselves as headteacher, preparation for headship, key challenges, key successes, and ongoing training and support. With regard to reflections on the role of headteacher, all three research participants acknowledged moments of self-reflection and self-doubt, starting before they took up post. Recruitment and retention was another challenging area highlighted by all three new headteachers, despite their different school contexts. Despite the documented pressures and challenges of the role of headteacher, there is rarely a formal transition process in place to support the incoming head.