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The staffroom

Whether you're a permanent teacher, supply teacher or student teacher, you'll find others in the same situation on our Staffroom forum.

Apply for HOD job at old school

6 replies

Rubiscoisfantastic · 04/05/2025 18:15

Hello,
I’m toying with the idea of applying for a HOD job at my old school.
I left a long time ago, mainly because i was very part time and not really teaching my subject. My kids were very young and permanently ill, so had quite a bit of time off. I decided to cut my losses and just be a SAHM.
Anyway, the school I am in now is lovely and very local, but no chance of progressing. My kids have left school now and I feel as though it’s my time.
Current school is very local, whereas old school is about a 30 min drive. Pay would be the same because of the TLR I have now and I am getting London weighting. It’s more the progression that appeals and the experience I would gain as HOD.
Am I mad to consider this? I have a pretty comfortable position at the moment.

OP posts:
CeciliaMars · 06/05/2025 17:25

I personally think you'd be mad! A longer commute for more stress and no extra money? It's great that you feel ready for progression, but I'd say look for something better and more rewarding than what you have got already!

Rubiscoisfantastic · 06/05/2025 20:24

CeciliaMars · 06/05/2025 17:25

I personally think you'd be mad! A longer commute for more stress and no extra money? It's great that you feel ready for progression, but I'd say look for something better and more rewarding than what you have got already!

Thank you. It is a bit mad! I will be losing my TLR next year as it is only temporary, so I guess this secures my salary at the moment.
Still umming and erring. 🙄

OP posts:
TortolaParadise · 07/05/2025 19:37

I was once told by a headteacher, 'Never go back.' I take this as good advice.

MN2025 · 07/05/2025 21:56

Rubiscoisfantastic · 04/05/2025 18:15

Hello,
I’m toying with the idea of applying for a HOD job at my old school.
I left a long time ago, mainly because i was very part time and not really teaching my subject. My kids were very young and permanently ill, so had quite a bit of time off. I decided to cut my losses and just be a SAHM.
Anyway, the school I am in now is lovely and very local, but no chance of progressing. My kids have left school now and I feel as though it’s my time.
Current school is very local, whereas old school is about a 30 min drive. Pay would be the same because of the TLR I have now and I am getting London weighting. It’s more the progression that appeals and the experience I would gain as HOD.
Am I mad to consider this? I have a pretty comfortable position at the moment.

Did you enjoy working at your old school? Is the HT still the same? What about the deputy? Why don’t you reach out to them to register your interest?

Rubiscoisfantastic · 12/05/2025 14:35

Quick update. I went for an interview out of nosiness. What an absolutely chaotic shambles of a school it is now. I have settled my curiosity.

OP posts:
CeciliaMars · 13/05/2025 11:49

Well done! Onwards and upwards.

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