Do you remember your first headship interview? The preparation. The nerves. The question you hadn’t expected. Waiting for the phone to ring. Whether you got the job or not, what stayed with you? What would you tell someone preparing for their first headship interview today?

Can anyone help anon? For those currently serving as headteachers — what’s your biggest regret, or something you wish you’d tackled in your first year? I’m keen to learn from your experiences as I begin my own journey as Headteacher.

Would you keep them less frequent? Use them just to inform, without always giving feedback? Or carry on as is? Honestly, I’m starting to think it’s too much…"

Anon post: I’ve had an email from my NEU rep saying staff are feeling stressed by the number of learning walks, each followed by feedback. I know we have 3 formal observations, but learning walks seem unlimited.

Can anyone help anon? They’re looking for ideas on staff recognition—something sustainable, meaningful, and budget-friendly. What strategies or examples have worked well in your school?

I’m reviewing next year’s timetable and, with so many subjects now being treated as core, I’m puzzled about how to fit everything in without losing a maths or English session.

Anon post: Does anyone know where it states that children must have a full or discrete lesson of English and maths every day?

Anonymous post: Starting my first day as co-head today. Any tips for managing tasks and sharing responsibilities—especially when my part-time co-head is off?

Anonymous question: How much time do students at your school have for lunch? We’re currently set at a 60‑minute lunch period, but covering it with staff is getting tougher. Are other schools running a shorter window—or do you give them more time?

It feels like everyone’s a ‘school leadership guru’ these days. Led a school? No. Held a leadership role? Rarely. Sharing advice? Constantly.

“What’s the best thing you’ve learned about storms?” Asked the boy. “That they end.” Said the horse Drawn on a wall in a coffee shop in Walberswick by @charliemackesy

Most professionals spend weeks prepping for one big presentation. Teachers deliver five or more every single day—without skipping a beat. What’s another thing teachers do daily that only other teachers truly understand?

Look after your headteacher! I've been talking to and working with many headteachers who are currently feeling the strain. Heads do such a demanding job. We need to look after them!