How nauseating to read that there is a new scheme to recruit headteachers which totally ignores why there is a shortage of headteachers in the first place (“Non-teachers turn primary heads under new scheme”, April 9).
I would defy anybody who is not a great teacher and loves children to do this crucial, wonderful role well. A great primary headteacher knows exactly what constitutes excellent teaching and learning and is there, day in, day out, ensuring that all staff get it right.
What is the point of somebody else doing this since this is, first and foremost, the most important thing in the school and should be headed by the school leader? I speak as an experienced headteacher of 16 years, as a national leader of education and headteacher of an “outstanding” school.
What on earth is the National College thinking about? Let’s deal with the real issues of headteacher shortages and encourage quality teachers and deputy heads with excellent leadership qualities to apply for the best job in the world.
Dominic Cragoe, Head, Sheringham Community Primary School and Nursery, Norfolk.