The Relationship Between the Head and the Deputy Head in Primary Schools

This study explores the role of the primary school deputy and in particular, the interrelation between the deputy and the head. Data were collected by individual in-depth interviews with the heads and deputies of 10 primary schools. The findings confirm the nature of the deputy's role as reported in other studies. A number of factors which influence the deputy's role and the deputy's interrelationship with the head are identified. The study characterises the similarities between the head and the deputy which are considered to be essential components of a successful pairing. It also defines other significant dimensions where the head and deputy might differ in a successful partnership. Complementarity, compensation, tolerance, acceptance and accommodation are important in making these differences productive. The findings are considered in relation to aspects of role theory and interpreted from a psychodynamic perspective on organisational processes. The implications of the findings are discussed.