Interview etiquette

[Waterhorse46]

What is the correct way to address the HT in this case, when working for a large MAT, is the best way to email?

Dear Mr Headteacher???

Find out their name on the website.

I don’t really understand the question.

Is this more about an application than an interview? If so, I’d agree that you should check the head’s name on the school’s website and then write Dear Mr/Ms X.

Is it about whether you should email (rather than posting a letter or phoning)? If there is a formal advert I’d expect it to say how people should respond. If it doesn’t, I’d go for email.

I don’t understand the relevance of the MAT.

No as in if you’re called for interview. Is it an expectation to email the head at your current school and properly explain

I think you need to use your own judgement on that. The answer would probably depending on the size of school and your role in it, as well as on your relationship with the head and your reasons for wanting to leave.

In some circumstances it might be very sensible to explain to the head why you want to leave. In others, it might be better to leave a “proper” explanation until you have been offered a new job.

Presumably you will need to take time off to attend the interview and so will need to arrange that with your line manager (who may or may not tell the head anyway).

The head will need to know if you'd like a day off to attend interview. And usually, they'll be your referee.

I've had it in the past that I've read the invitation to interview at the end of the day, headed up to speak to the HT and he already knew, as the reference request was sent to him at the same time.

Heads can be funny about not knowing in advance of reference requests.

It's generally considered good etiquette to have approached your head before hand to tell them you are applying for other roles and ask if they would be happy to be your referee.

You don't have to give them your real reason for leaving at this point and I would suggest not burning your bridges if you will rely on them for references.

Examples of reasons:
Looking for promotional opportunities.
Would like experience in a different setting e.g. smaller / larger / grammar.
Reduce commute/ plan to move nearer to x area in future and a job has come up there.