The previous headteacher standards were created in 2004. They were intended to provide a framework for professional development and action and to inform, challenge and enthuse serving and aspiring headteachers. Ministers wanted to update the standards to ensure they were modern and relevant, reflecting the diversity of the existing schools landscape and encompassing school and system leadership responsibilities in a self-improving school-led system.

The review group’s aim was to define leadership standards that are applicable to all headteacher roles in the current educational landscape and a self-improving school system. They wanted these standards to inspire public confidence in headteachers, drive aspiration and excellence, and empower the profession. This document gives an overview of the review.