The perceptions of primary education head teachers, deputy head teachers and teachers on the role of deputy head teachers

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate the perceptions of head teachers, deputy head teachers and teachers of primary education in the prefecture of Ioannina, Greece, regarding the role of the deputy head Teacher in a primary school unit. The methodology followed was the qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews. The results of the research indicate that deputy head teachers' role is a key-role for the operation of the school although they face difficulties, because they are charged with the dual role of the educator and the deputy head. All members of the school community have underlined the effectiveness of deputy head teachers' work as well as the need to decrease the deputy head's teaching hours, in order for them to be able to cope with this dual role. The present study is one of the very few conducted on the specific matter; it adds a holistic and in-depth perspective on the role of deputy head teachers and can be proven valuable for measures taken by policy makers worldwide.