Gerald Haigh was a teacher for thirty years, eleven of them as a primary head. For most of that time, continuing to the present day, he has also been a writer on education, contributing articles to the Times Educational Supplement, The Guardian and various other newsletters and education websites.Anne Perry is Head of St. Giles Junior School in Warwickshire.

• Introduction. Prologue. The Big One 1. What’s the Head there for? 2. Dealing with Distractions 3. Wading Through Treacle – More Distractions 4. Delegation 5. Taking Stock 6. Where are You now? And Where are you Going? 7. The Legacy 8. Resistance to Change 9. Monitoring 10. Supporting and Developing Staff 11. ICT 12. To Teach or Not to Teach 13. Money 14. Relationships with Parents 15. Relationships with Governors 16. Adopting and Enjoying the Role 17. The Support of Colleagues and the Kindness of Friends. Epilogue: Random Point Winners

"primary headteachers encounter more problems with managing time and priorities, improving consultation and communication, getting staff to work as a team" - NFER 2003"