In this blog I want to offer Ten Tips for New HODs. Running a music department is never easy, but always rewarding. There is a constant stream of things to do, but I can assure you there are more highs than lows. I hope these ideas will assist any teacher taking on a new role. They might also be helpful for someone looking for a new approach. Some of these tips are things I have done for years. However, some are new ideas that I have put into practice more recently.
Be consistent
This is the most important thing for a new HOD. As you start a new role you need to be consistent in what you do. The way you run a department should centre around consistency in both the classroom and rehearsal room. If you are running a team they want to know who you are and how you work. Chopping and changing things won’t help with this. If you are in a new school then the students will also benefit from your consistency. As they get to know you, they want to know where they stand.
And as the years go by, if you consistently do what you believe is right, you will see the results.
Start something new that is uniquely you
Any new HOD will have new ideas. Some of them will be good, some bad, and some will need to wait. But make sure that you start something new that is uniquely you. This could be a new club, a new classroom approach or a new event. Make your mark with something positive, and something you are passionate about. It doesn’t need to be a big thing, it could be a small idea, but it is your idea.
Don’t do it on your own
If you think you can survive on your own you are wrong. Teaching is hard, and being a music teacher is harder (just kidding). You need to rely on your music team, if you have one. You should also depend on other HODs in your school. Make sure that you chat to other leaders and learn from them. It is also good to link up with HODs in other local schools.
And as ever, I can recommend joining Music Teachers Association. This will provide you with great networking opportunities and a chance to be part of something bigger.
Work with your senior leaders
This is crucial as they will be the ones who can support you the most. There is a lot I could say about this, but I have already blogged on this subject. But support the school, say yes when you can and don’t moan all the time!
Think short, medium and long term
You need to plan, but make sure you think short, medium and long term. You can’t do everything in the first month or term. There are quick wins and changes, but some things will take time. Spend time mapping out what you want to do. Be realistic with your expectations and goals. You will quickly burn out if you try and do too much at once. Of course the school might want rapid change, but that isn’t always possible. As I said above, work with your senior leaders to establish a plan. Find out the key priorities and go from there.
Don’t change it all at once
This is linked to the above, don’t change too much all at once. If you do this, you may lose the staff and the students along the way. Change can be hard, and if you are new to a school you need to allow yourself time. This time will give you a chance to learn about the school and the students. What worked in your last school may not work in your new setting. So be careful not to “throw the baby out with the bathwater” for want of another phrase.
Get in early and leave late
As a HOD I have always tried to get in early and leave late. I don’t want my colleagues feeling like I am not there for them. I also want to ensure that I am ready for the day, and that my desk is clear for the weekend. This won’t be possible for everyone, but consider when you can get in early. It always helps me to start the day well and I hate taking too much work home with me. I guess my advice is to think carefully about when you work and how much you work.
Make it your own
When taking on a department you want to make it your own. You will have musical interests and skills that you can use in your work. Your music department needs to be an extension of your passion for music. This will be seen in the groups you lead, the music you choose and the way you teach. But in making it your own you also need to think about the context and the students. You mustn’t let your own desires overtake the needs of the students. It is a balance that you need to find, and it can take time.
But as you approach a new role, consider what you can bring to it. When you bring your own passion and energy it can only be a good thing for the children you teach.
Ten Tips for New HODs
Running a music department is brilliant. I have been doing it for over 20 years and I just love the chance to shape the lives of my students. I have worked with some amazing people and I love the challenge. At times it is hard, and so I hope these ideas have helped you shape your thinking. I am still learning, still failing and I hope that I get it right this year. You will hit bumps in the road, and that is okay. Not every idea will work and stick, and it can be lonely and tough. But keep going, stay confident and look for small wins to help you. I hope that these ten tips for new HODs resonate with you. I wish you all the best on your journey leading a music department.