when would you consider applying for HOD- thinking about family and DC

[coolpaper]

some people say not to change the jobs whilst kids are small...I have 2 kids: one is in school and one is still a preschooler. Just wondeirng whether it is better to apply for HOD whilst I am not desperate and if I do not get it - then it is fine. Otherwise in few years time I might feel I woudl like to move on to HOD and be desperate?

If you are thinking about it, do it - you obviously want to! Preschooler won't be preschool for long.

There will never be a good time. I'm starting to apply in the next academic year. Mine are currently 5 and 15, however I started to apply for posts originally when DS was 18 months; DD got sick and it's put me back by 3 years. I'm a 2nd at the moment.

What's your subject? I'm HOD and have been for years - pre and post kids. I took 4 years off when I had DTs and then went back, by coincidence, to my previous HOD position. The girls were starting reception as I went back and it was fine. I'm head of Performing Arts so it's only a small dept though.

Drama so usually departments not big but managing individual drama lessons I mean some kids take drama exams and there are teachers who just do that, I would have to manage them timetable wise etc

That's what I do. Definitely manageable with a young family. Busiest times are when we have productions but my DH knows that well in advance and takes control of the family. I love the job. Wouldn't change it for the world.

If you find a job you want to go for, then apply. If you want specific help or info, feel free to PM.