So You’ve Spotted a Leadership Post: What Happens Next?

When a leadership post is advertised, the mix of excitement and pressure can feel intense. Teachers start reading circulars, checking deadlines, and thinking, Could this be my time?

Whether you are preparing for your first Deputy Principal post or stepping forward for Principal, having a clear plan brings calm and focus. Here’s what usually happens once that advertisement appears, and how to move through each stage with confidence, reflection, and self-awareness.

Phase 1: Initial Awareness and Decision

This is where curiosity meets courage.

• Check the usual places for leadership posts: EducationPosts.ie, ETB portals, school websites, or patron circulars.

• Note the closing date, the method of application, and what documents are needed.

• Pause and decide if this is the right opportunity for you. Think about your readiness, timing, and the kind of school where you want to lead.

• Let your family or key supporters know. Emotional and practical support will help you through this stage.

• Start gathering key documents such as your Teaching Council registration, qualifications, Garda vetting, an updated CV, and referee details.

This is also a good time to work with a coach or mentor to reflect on your motivation and long-term goals before you apply.

Phase 2: Understanding the School Context

Strong applications grow from deep understanding.

• Read the school’s mission or ethos statement and its main policies such as DEIS, SSE, and Child Protection.

• Study the LAOS (Looking at Our School) domains and link them with the school’s current priorities.

• Research enrolment trends, staffing, and community partnerships.

• Review the Board of Management or ETB vision and values.

• If you can, talk with someone who knows the school culture well, in a professional and discreet way.

This stage is about empathy and insight. The more you understand the school’s heartbeat, the stronger your application will feel.

Phase 3: Application Preparation

Now you move from reflection to action.

• Download the official form and read it carefully.

• Match each section with the related LAOS competencies.

• Collect clear examples of leadership using STAR, SCOPE, or PAWS structures.

• Include measurable results where possible, such as improved attendance or new initiatives.

• Write your personal statement with the school in mind. Let your genuine voice come through.

• Ask a mentor or coach to review your answers for clarity and balance.

• Proofread carefully for grammar, formatting, and flow.

• Complete digital signatures or scans if required and send your application early to avoid last- minute stress.

Reflection during this stage builds confidence. You start to see the leadership you already show in your daily work.

Phase 4: Interview Preparation

If you are shortlisted, it’s time to prepare for interview.

• Confirm the date, time, and location, and note who will be on the panel if that information is available.

• Prepare your key leadership messages and philosophy.

• Review the policies and circulars linked to the role, such as Child Protection and the Governance Manual.

• Practise your answers around the LAOS domains: Leading Learning and Teaching, Managing the Organisation, Developing Leadership Capacity, and Building Relationships.

• Write opening and closing remarks that sound natural and confident.

• Work through scenario questions.

• Do a mock interview with a coach or trusted colleague.

• Plan your travel, outfit, and any materials you will need.

Coaching at this stage helps you understand how your communication comes across and keeps nerves in check.

Phase 5: Post-Interview

Once the interview is finished, take a breath before moving on.

• Write down what went well and what you would improve next time.

• Wait for news patiently.

• If you are not selected, ask for feedback and keep it for future preparation.

• If you are successful, celebrate and then move into transition mode.

• Accept the role in writing.

• Notify your referees.

• Begin planning the handover with the outgoing leader.

Reflection here is just as important as it was at the start. Every interview adds experience and awareness.

Phase 6: Transition into the Role

Your leadership journey truly begins here.

Arrange a handover meeting with the outgoing principal or deputy.

Review key documents such as Board minutes, financial statements, and timetables.

Meet staff, parents, and students to listen and learn.

Set short-term goals for your first ninety days.

Keep your professional growth going through mentoring, coaching, and continued learning.

Leadership is not a finish line. It is a path of reflection, learning, and connection.

Final Thoughts

Every leadership post brings new learning and opportunity. From that first circular to your first day in the role, each phase offers a chance to grow in awareness and skill.

Coaching and reflective practice turn the process from a checklist into a journey of discovery that helps you lead with clarity, calm, and authenticity.

If you are thinking about your next step, take time to reflect, prepare early, and seek the right support. You will not only strengthen your application but also step into leadership ready to make a lasting impact.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you are preparing for leadership, you do not have to do it alone.
At Orla Dempsey Mentoring, I help teachers pause, reflect, and plan their next move with calm confidence.
Through coaching, feedback, and real conversation, we turn preparation into growth and interviews into genuine opportunities.

You can book a Clarity Call to explore my in-depth support for Senior Leaders or view my interview shop to see what’s available to you.

You know that you already have what it takes to lead. Whether you join The Confident Career Leader Programme for exclusive, ongoing support ot book a mock interview for a specific job interview, coaching will help you see things clearly and move forward with belief in yourself.