Mrs Class

@ICT_MrP After 5 years of being a headteacher, I have just walked away. It has been hard to do this but my family were really worried about my health and well- being so I had to do it. No one is listening - no one!!! 😢😢😢

Do I think Ofsted care about the wellbeing of teaching staff? No, but reading through the submissions to the parliamentary inquiry set up after the death of Ruth Perry is heartbreaking, made worse by the fact that Ofsted, haven’t learnt a single lesson.

@Headteacherchat Yep me! Happy for you to DM me if you would like 👍

Anonymous post: I didn’t expect it, but I’ve burned out as a Headteacher. I’ve been off for six months and I’m now planning a phased return. Has anyone been through this? What helped you ease back in?

@Headteacherchat @HappyHead74 I wouldn’t read any book if I were you. Just get to know your school - your staff, your pupils and your families and community. They have all the knowledge you have to build your confidence.

Anonymous post: I’m about to step into a Head role and want to hit the ground running. What are your top book recommendations? Leadership reads—especially for school leaders—would be perfect, but I’m open to anything that sharpens judgement, builds confidence, and improves day-to-day practice. If a book genuinely shaped your leadership—or you wish you’d read it before you started—please share. Thank you.

@Edmund_B_W I am walking away from my Headteacher role for all of the above reasons. So, so sad what happened..

I’ve been away for a bit. We haven’t been having the best time, to be honest. I’ve noticed a few things happening with Ofsted and their supporters recently, and I’ve written about it. Ofsted, of course, are driving on regardless. difficultlessons.wordpress.com/2026/03/17/dri…

@Headteacherchat Tell them about you and then just listen and watch for a few weeks 👍

I’m concerned this plan might feel too intense for an introductory session. Am I overlooking any vital areas or is there a more effective way to establish the year's tone? Insights from seasoned leaders would be highly valued!

Anonymous Post: I'm gearing up for my debut INSET day as a new Headteacher and aiming to make a strong first impression. Here's my tentative agenda: - Engaging in a conversation about staff's grasp of the school’s vision and values.

@Headteacherchat Treat yourself with kindness

What would be the best piece of advice you could give a school leader, using only four words? headteacher-chat.link/wisdom4leads

IMPORTANT We’re hearing of some really challenging situations that are seriously affecting the mental health and wellbeing of school leaders and education staff. If you are struggling, please ask for help.

@BevWalkerGordo1 @Headteacherchat Please, please, don’t go into school each week over the summer as you will never switch off. It’s important to have a physical and mental break. I beg you not to take your laptop on holiday. You are important and you matter x

@Headteacherchat Yes totally normal! Autumn term is set to be our inspection and I’m constantly thinking about it so my mind keeps whirling and can’t shut off. Plans are to go in all over the 6 weeks except my wedding anniversary week where I’m going away… but I am taking my laptop! 🫣🫣

Anon post: Is it normal for a new headteacher to feel overwhelmed and anxious about their plans for the six-week break?

@MissAHadley Yes, I was!

@Headteacherchat Try and reach out to talk to someone. It is such a tough job and it can feel so lonely. Phone @Headrest_UK. They help you see through the fog and are so supportive. Sending you a massive hug - whatever decision. you make, you’ve got this.

Anon post: I'm a headteacher and I want out. I haven't enjoyed the job at all and am burned out after only 3 years. I know I need to resign by 31st August to leave by Christmas. Is it acceptable to email my resignation over the summer holidays?

@BeckyMarie80 Flash Academy is amazing!

@DavidNautilus1 @FloraSCooper So true!

@FloraSCooper Everyone needs this, even the head.

This can mean the world sometimes...it's things like this that keep you going.

@emmccatt I’ve been wearing summer dresses and sandals every day for the past few weeks. I’m freezing every day but I’m not giving in!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣

New Blog: Why School Leaders Fear Making Mistakes. oldprimaryhead.com/2024/06/08/ate…

@Oldprimaryhead1 @chrisdysonHT Love, love, love this. 100% true.

New Blog: I see the BBC are reporting on this very issue today. The fact that schools have become overwhelmed with responsibilities that make the job harder than ever. What is the purpose of school? oldprimaryhead.com/2024/06/08/ate…

@Headteacherchat 100% yes

Are learning objectives written in books a waste of time?

As a senior leader, sometimes you can feel overwhelmed by how much you have to do. We must remember to focus on and complete one thing. Then we have made progress. #mentalhealthweek #mentlahealthawareness #smallsteps #headteacherchat #headteacherlife

Anon post: Good evening Any other Headteachers finding this job just so tough? The pressure is relentless and my levels of anxiety are through the roof. I’m really struggling to convince myself that I am enough at the moment! Any top tips ??

@FollyGirlMaxine @RetirementTales Yes!! Just remembered that we did too!

@mrsclassroom19 @RetirementTales Yes! And e used to sing it as a 'round'

We've reached the letter "K" in "Geoff and Margaret's A to Z of Old School Days". We're looking for your memories - perhaps a song, a book or a classroom resource. We'll start proceedings with Kipper, from the Oxford Reading Tree, and Kum Ba Yah. Add your "K" words here: