Positive ethos
The ethos of a school contributes significantly to the emotional well-being of the whole school population. Schools with a positive ethos have a vision and philosophy that translates into practice and the day-to-day life of the school: they are places where staff want to work and pupils want to learn.
School ethos is created by a combination of the following:
- organisational practices
- the physical and psychological environment
- pupil and staff well-being and sense of achievement
- the involvement of families, carers and the community.
Features of a positive school ethos include:
- leadership and management that is committed to improving the health and well-being of all pupils and staff
- a positive vision and philosophy that is translated into practice
- a physical and psychological environment that supports emotional well-being
- ongoing work to eliminate discrimination and stigma
- a strong sense of community
- good interpersonal relationships
- appropriate pastoral care for pupils and staff
- pupil involvement in decision making
- development of citizenship
- involvement of families and carers
- involvement of individuals and organisations that support promotion and care of emotional well-being across the whole school population.
Useful resources
School ethos page
Learn more about school ethos and where to find support.
Scottish Schools Ethos Network
The website of a Scottish Executive funded project aiming to promote the importance of a positive school ethos: contains news, events, case studies and a database of resources for schools.
Anti-bullying Network
Provides school staff, young people and families with assistance in tackling bullying.
PDF file: Being Well – Doing Well (1033KB)
National framework for health promoting schools in Scotland.
