Welcoming the initiative, Councillor Steve Forster, Executive Member for Education, said: “Hampshire offers an incredible breadth of schools – from vibrant city settings to small rural communities – ensuring there truly is a place for everyone. Our headteachers are committed to nurturing talent and actively encourage aspiring leaders to explore headship across the county. When you join Hampshire, you become part of a collaborative, supportive network that values professional development, inclusion and belonging, and is united in creating schools where everyone is welcomed and where our Hampshire children truly thrive.”
In support of the recruitment campaign, four Hampshire school leaders have shared their personal experiences to inspire the next generation of heads.
They described their work as far more than a job: it is a chance to shape lives, strengthen communities and lead with purpose. Every day brings something different, from guiding staff and supporting families to ensuring children feel happy, safe and excited to learn.
Sarah McGillivray, headteacher at Mayhill Junior School, Odiham, reflected on the impact of the role: “We’re privileged to be headteachers – making a difference to these children, no matter how small. Seeing their faces, coming in smiling and wanting to be in school, that’s why I get up every day.”
Jane Baker, headteacher at Hawley Primary School in Blackwater, echoed this sense of purpose: “I enjoy the fact that every day is different. Every day comes with challenges, but every day comes with joy and that is what I am most passionate about.”
Hampshire has long been recognised for its well-established support structures for new and experienced headteachers alike. Every new head receives a comprehensive induction programme commissioned by their governing board and delivered by the County Council’s skilled Leadership and Learning Partners. This includes mentoring, tailored training and regular opportunities to connect with peers.
Alison Tong, headteacher at St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Farnborough, highlighted the value of this support: “The support and induction for a new headteacher is really critical and vital. We’re lucky in Hampshire that the induction support for new headteachers is absolutely fantastic.”
Sarah McGillivray added: “They ran a very thorough course over my first year of headship. There were opportunities to meet face to face with other new heads and directed courses covering leadership, finance, health and safety.”
This collaborative approach continues well beyond the first year. Headteachers meet regularly in district groups, clusters and informal networks to share ideas and discuss challenges.
For headteachers joining from outside the county – or even outside England – these networks can be transformative. Jane Baker recalled the welcome she received when moving from Wales: “Local headteachers reached out to me and invited me to their schools. Immediately I was part of a cluster of heads that I engaged with.”
Hampshire leaders emphasise that they enjoy freedom to shape their school – its curriculum, staffing and day to day approach – while knowing support is there when needed.
Tom May, Executive Headteacher of the Green Oaks Federation in Hartley Wintney, commented: “That’s the best thing about being a headteacher – the autonomy. I love that I can bring what is vital to my philosophy of education. Ultimately, we’re the schools for a whole community here. That’s the special bit.”
One Hampshire head summed up the message: “If someone was thinking about applying for a headship in Hampshire, I’d say – do it. We’ve got a school for everyone, a great network of people and excellent support.”
Teachers interested in exploring current headteacher opportunities and finding out more about school leadership in Hampshire can visit:https://www.hants.gov.uk/jobs/education/headteachers