Schools as Organisations 2

Explain what is meant by the following terms and how a school would reflect this in its practice

a.    Ethos

A school’s ethos is usually based on the philosophy or atmosphere in the school, providing a safe and respected environment that facilitates successful learning. It is affected by the type of school, e.g. religious ethos. (“School ethos” 2014)

b.   Mission

The school’s mission means its overall intention. It is the modern equivalent of a motto. The mission is what the school is intended to achieve on the academic and physical level and it is the summary of goals set forth by the institution. It is based on the school’s distinctive beliefs and includes concepts about the environment, services offered and parental involvement. It is specific to the organisation and focuses on a common purpose. (“Silky Steps” Forum 2014)

c.    Aims

Aims include the school’s vision and description and they are usually written down in the school prospectus and set by the Head Teacher in co-operation with the parents and community. Each school has its specific goals but all schools should aim to help pupils become successful learners, healthy individuals and responsible citizens. (“Evaluate Methods…” 2014)

d.   Values

Values describe the moral code the school represents and provide a general guide to behaviour and reference points in decision making. They have to relate to the individuals and the relationships between people; and to our contribution to our society and environment. (“Aims, values and purposes” 2014)

How a school would communicate ethos, mission, aims and values to pupils, staff and parents

• School Literature: School’s Prospectus, School Handbook, Policies
• School Website
• Meetings, e.g. for new parents, open days
• Assemblies and worship

Effectiveness of the different methods of communicating ethos, mission, aims and values to pupils, staff and parents

Parents can get an initial idea about the school’s ethos, mission, aims and values from the school’s prospectus and website before even deciding to enrol their children into the institution. Although, if the written information does not clarify certain points, face-to-face meeting with the school staff, e.g. on an open day might be useful. The School’s Handbook will detail all the policies, aims and values for future reference, but also it is essential to have an initial meeting between the teachers and the new parents so that they can talk about all the crucial points. Pupils should also be encourages to read to School’s Handbook or browse the website so that they are aware what is expected of them at school and what they can expect from the institution. Furthermore, school assemblies or common worships in a religious institution reinforce the ethos and values the teachers wish to give over to the children.

Reference list

“Aims, values and purposes.” Department for Education. Accessed 02/02/2014.
<http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/curriculum/b00199676/aims-values-and-purposes/aims>

“Evaluate Methods of Communicating a Schools Ethos, Mission, Aims and Values.” Studymode. Accessed 02/02/2014.
<http://www.studymode.com/essays/Evaluate-Methods-Of-Communicating-A-Schools-801899.html>

 “School ethos” Department for Education. Accessed 02/02/2014.
<http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/leadership/schoolethos>

“Silky Steps” Forum. Accessed 02/02/2014.
<http://www.silkysteps.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15449>