Does Deputy Head Teacher

Role Overview

A deputy head teacher is a school teacher who is second only to the head teacher or school principal in terms of authority. The term is most commonly used in the United Kingdom and nations that were formerly part of the British Empire. Deputy head teachers primarily focus on classroom teaching, but they also handle some of the head teacher's responsibilities if the head teacher is absent.

Many schools entrust this teacher to handle disciplinary matters, as well as coordinating staffing and overseeing school examinations.

Primary and elementary schools normally employ deputies who have a broad knowledge of educational topics, rather than teachers with a specialized focus on one area of the curriculum. These schools usually assign one particular class of students to the teacher and, with few exceptions, all of the students' classes are led by that person. At high schools and secondary schools, teachers with this title normally teach classes on one specific topic, such as English or science.

These teachers often teach fewer classes than other staff members, but also cover lessons when other teachers are absent.

Daily operations of the school are overseen by the head teacher, who rarely teaches classes. When this person is away from the school, the deputy head teacher must handle all administrative duties, including liaising with the school board, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), and handling staffing matters. Most work closely with head teachers, and experienced deputies take on extra responsibilities designed to prepare them to take on a head teacher role at another school.

• Maintain discipline in the classroom and discipline students when necessary.
• Coordinate examinations by making testing schedules, assigning teachers to administer exams, and finding suitable venues.
• Compile reports for local authorities regarding examinations.
• Handle administrative duties in the absence of the head teacher, including liaison with the board and PTA.
• Support staffing matters such as scheduling and coordinating staff during absences.
• Prepare for future head teacher roles through additional responsibilities.

• Broad knowledge of educational topics.
• Experience teaching and managing classroom responsibilities.
• Ability to handle disciplinary actions and communicate with parents.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.

Opportunity to develop leadership skills and prepare for head teacher positions.