Head Teacher Job Description

What is the job description of a Head Teacher? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Head Teacher? What does a Head Teacher do?

Job description of a Head Teacher

A Head Teacher, also known as Head Master or Head Mistress creates a positive and appropriate learning environment through the management of a school. Their duties include helping deliver the highest standard of education to the students, supporting Teachers and staff and ensuring an overall safe and successful school environment.

This Head Teacher job description example includes the list of most important Head Teacher duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Head Teacher profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Head Teacher Duties and Responsibilities

Head Teacher job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Creating an academic programme for students that meets national standards
  • Working closely and communicating with students’ parents
  • Using data to track student performance and produce reports
  • Working with external advisors and school governors
  • Controlling school finances
  • Helping assess students’ needs and development
  • Selecting, training, supporting and assessing staff
  • Providing guidance to staff to help resolve issues with students
  • Ensuring the safety of all children in the institution/programme

Head Teacher Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Head Teacher job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • University degree in one of the following areas: Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science
  • Experience working as a Teacher in a school as well as several years of experience as a Deputy Head or Senior Manager of a school
  • Business management skills
  • Openness and flexibility
  • Leadership skills
  • The ability to teach and design courses
  • Excellent verbal and communication skills
  • The ability to work well with others
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • The ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Head Teacher starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Head Teacher job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Head Teacher may also reference it in preparation for the interview.