HeadStart is a 12-month programme providing professional induction for first-time Primary Headteachers. It is a developmental programme designed to support and challenge the thinking of the participants in their new role and to enable them to establish a professional network

The programme changes with each cohort to meet the National and local needs of the participants but typically focuses on:

Headship – What’s different about being the Headteacher?
1. Understanding Self and others - Personal Resilience
2. Key Services and Support including SEND
3. Understanding the Effectiveness of EYFS as a Headteacher
4. Human Resources for Newly Appointed Headteachers
5. Assessment Responsibilities
6. Working Effectively with Governors
7. Cultural Change
8. Teaching and Learning/Curriculum Design/School Improvement Planning including Monitoring and Evaluation
9. Psychological Safety within a TEAM

FEEDBACK
'I just wanted to say how much I’ve appreciated this course. Head Start has been incredibly valuable — every session has been purposeful, insightful, and genuinely helpful. My advice to anyone considering it would be simple: don’t hesitate, just go.
Beyond the content, I’ve met some truly amazing people, and having that supportive network for questions, ideas, or even just a bit of a rant has made a big difference.' CN

'Thanks to you both for the HeadStart course this year. It’s been great having a safe space to learn, share and reflect.' JS

' HeadStart is supportive, informative, and at times, challenging. It gave me the confidence to develop and encouraged me to grow into my new role. It enabled me to connect with other new headteachers and helped me realise that I am not alone!
I would highly recommend this course to any new headteachers'. MC


I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for everything over the last year. The course has been invaluable, and I feel like I have learned such a lot.
JP