New headteacher: questions to ask your SLT

Ask your senior leadership team (SLT) these questions in the early days of headship so you can learn more about how your leadership team works, the strengths and weaknesses of your staff, and the school's context.

Last reviewed on 4 June 2026
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 9751
Contents
  1. Build relationships across your school community 
  2. Discuss these questions with your SLT
  3. CPD from The Key: practical leadership courses to book now

Build relationships across your school community 

Your school community will watch your early actions closely to understand your values and leadership style, so you should try to meet with:

  • Your senior leadership team (SLT) (read more on this below)
  • The governing board – to understand how they work with your school
  • Each staff member – to get a sense of concerns
  • Pupils – to see what’s going on (e.g. at the start or end of the school day)
  • Parents/carers – to understand their views of the school (e.g. during an open evening)

Read our other article for more guidance on what to prioritise in the early weeks of headship.

Discuss these questions with your SLT

Alongside the