Story perspectives

Headteacher Shortage: 27% of Schools Struggle by 2025

12/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

By Christmas 2025, 27% of state schools in England struggled to fill headteacher vacancies.
Over 400 schools advertised in August–December.
Among special schools, 20% had to re-advertise vacancies, and Professor John Howson said policymakers must address recruitment issues in special schools.
The National Association of Head Teachers warned that primary headteachers are leaving due to overwhelming demands, and the government aims to add 6,500 teachers to address the shortage.

1 of 1

Story summary

By Christmas 2025, 27% of state schools in England struggled to fill headteacher vacancies.
Over 400 schools advertised in August–December.
Among special schools, 20% had to re-advertise vacancies, and Professor John Howson said policymakers must address recruitment issues in special schools.
The National Association of Head Teachers warned that primary headteachers are leaving due to overwhelming demands, and the government aims to add 6,500 teachers to address the shortage.