Progress straight to Headteacher from AHT

[andbreathe555]

Hi, I would have previously asked this on TES Forums (such a shame that platform for educators has now gone!) I'm an experienced Assistant Headteacher and have done this role in two secondary mainstream schools.

Essentially, I wanted to ask if it is possible to progress straight to the position of Headteacher from Assistant Headteacher in a secondary mainstream setting and has anyone here (or know of anyone) who has made that jump? I am aware that this happens more often in primary, particularly in a smaller setting where there may not necessarily be a Deputy Headteacher.

Looking at person specifications, many say 'substantial experience of senior leadership' and don't necessarily specify this being at Deputy Head level. Some, however, say that candidates need to have been a Deputy Head (or desirable as a current Head) to be considered. For the former, do candidates get shortlisted for Headteacher posts without being a Deputy Head?

Thanks for your help.

There is a shortage of heads, only one way to find out I would say.

Most of the Heads I know have come up via Deputy Headships, though I know of at least one who bypassed that, and went straight from Assistant Head (in charge of Sixth Form) to Headteacher. They're still in post many years after being appointed, so they must have done something right.

There's nothing to stop you trying if you feel you're ready for it.

Thank you both