Headteachers: exit tasks and handover checklists

If you're leaving your role as a headteacher, use our checklists to tick off your exit tasks and ensure a smooth handover for the incoming head. You'll also find extra support if your successor is new to headship.

Last reviewed on 7 February 2024See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 10525
Contents
  1. Exit tasks checklist
  2. Handover checklist
  3. How to use the checklists

Exit tasks checklist

Use our checklist to make sure you've completed all the necessary tasks involved with leaving your role. It includes practical steps like:

  • Informing the right people at the right time
  • Updating licences, documents and bank accounts
  • Returning equipment
  • Removing your access to school data and systems

Download it here:

KeyDoc: Headteacher exit tasks checklist DOC, 207.0 KB
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Adapt this checklist to meet your needs and the specifics of your school.

Also take a look at our staff exit checklists to find out what jobs a school is responsible for when a staff member, including the headteacher, leaves.

Handover checklist

Handing over your role properly will help your successor to focus on providing high-quality education from day 1.

To make sure you’ve covered everything, download our handover checklist here:

Keydoc: Headteacher handover checklist DOC, 211.0 KB
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If your incoming head is new to headship, or has had limited experience,