New job

[Lizziewarmington]

I started a new job in September and it's turned out to be a terrible mistake. School is ten years behind, there's no money as staff all expensive and been there forever and they all moan all the time. Completely accept it's my own fault and should have researched school better but question is do I have to stay for two years and do as much as I can ( leadership role with apathetic head) or cut my losses and go now? It's making me very unhappy and stressed.

You don't have to stay beyond this next term, but you know that already.
Can you not keep going until the summer, and then move on? It will give you the chance to do some research and make a better choice next time.

This was me 8 yrs ago. I left a very forward facing London school for a very backward school in rural Wales. I knew there would be a culture shock but I didn't appreciate just how bad it would be. I bit my tongue a lot and tried to slowly suggest changes (whilst checking tes/eteach a lot). I do remember my first Christmas was the worse. My line manager came over half pissed at the Christmas party and asked when I'd be off as he could tell I had serious doubts. I stuck it out because we'd moved miles and DHs job could not be relocated. Within a few years a lot of the older stubborn staff had retired and I've helped to drive the school to a more modern establishment. Yes it still has a long way to go but I'm happy and really want the school to do well. I can't imagine being anywhere else now.
If I could have buggered off straight away I probably would have. If it's making you so miserable I'd stick it out until the summer term and then run for the hills.

That is inspiring Luciferbox - well done!

However, I came on to say that I think the key to being happy in teaching (and leadership) is to be in a school that is a good 'fit' for you. If you don't think this school is ever going to be that OP, I would see the year out and then move on.

Are you in an area where there are lots of options?

Sorry to hear that, Lizzie. Hope you can find a happier solution, be it encouraging this school to change for the better or a new job elsewhere.