The Real World Management Preoccupations of Primary School Heads

The role of the primary school headteacher has undergone significant changes since the Education Reform Act (1988). The purpose of this article is to explore the real time issues arising from the change of role of primary heads and also seeks to contribute to a greater understanding of the real world preoccupations of primary heads. The article is based on the results of a 2-year qualitative study of 12 primary headteachers and explores key issues for primary heads. The following key issues were identified by the heads: an increase in management; the role of the deputy head; relationships with school governors; parental involvement and the role of the headteacher as social worker; role overload and stress; professional support and the role of the advisers.