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Dear John...and others! To stay or not to stay

Dear John...and others! To stay or not to stay

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    Hi John and everyone else, So, I am currently Head of Department in the school that I trained in. I have worked in the school for five years. I absolutely love it and this is my first year of Head of Department. My subject is Drama. I have aspirations of becoming an Assistant Head Teacher either in charge of T&L, Data/Exams or Specialism (Performing Arts). The last one being my goal. So, here is my dilemma... I manage a team of 8 staff currently (Yes big department). Do you think I stick to where I am for another two years then apply for Assistant Head (this will give me a total of 8 years in my current school) OR should I look for another position in another school to show a bit of variety on my CV? Departments in other schools aren't going to be as big as ours and the school may not have specialist performing arts status. Bit of a dilemma as there are lots of Head of Drama jobs out there. Any thoughts anyone?
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     If you are happy and have just taken on a new role, I don't see why you would want to move. You are tempting fate.

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    Yes, but does it matter that I only have one school on my CV? Thats my worry!
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    Any help John?
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    As it is unusual to be able to lead such a large department in your subject I would stay where you are. In moving to AH jobs the fact you have managed a large group of staff will I suspect be more valuable than changing schools to a smaller department with a tighter focus on drama. I would try to work in some cross-school experience into your present role as that will also help. As you have only been a HoD for a year, you do have more to learn about the role and it will be easier where you are at present.

    John Howson

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