Members' library

• Leading schools
  • Succession planning
    • Recruiting headteachers and senior leaders
      • Recruitment process
        • Recruitment process step 1: preparing to recruit
        • Recruitment process step 2: defining the need
        • Recruitment process step 3: attracting candidates
        • Recruitment process step 4: selecting a candidate
        • Recruitment process step 5: appointing a candidate
        • Recruitment process step 6: planning for induction
        • Recruitment process step 7: evaluating the process

Recruitment process

Recruitment process step 1: preparing to recruit
Recruiting a new headteacher is the most important task for a governing body and should be approached with deliberation.

Recruitment process step 2: defining the need
Define your leadership needs in the light of your school’s context and goals, and produce a job description and person specification.

Recruitment process step 3: attracting candidates
Devise an effective advertisement and application pack to ensure you have a good field of suitable candidates.

Recruitment process step 4: selecting a candidate
Run an efficient selection process that helps you identify the most suitable applicant and gives candidates a good feel for your school.

Recruitment process step 5: appointing a candidate
Make a verbal offer and tell candidates the outcome. Make pre-employment checks before sending out a formal contract.  

Recruitment process step 6: planning for induction
Plan a programme to help your new headteacher settle into the role.

Recruitment process step 7: evaluating the process
Evaluate the recruitment and selection process to see what went well and what could have been better.