This theme recognises the vital role of Governors in defining and maintaining the ethos of the school. Participants in these modules will have opportunities to explore a range of topics related to school ethos such as school relationships, challenge, coaching approaches, Trauma Informed Practice and the impact of community.
Governors and Ethos One (Ethos Toolkit) considers the importance of school ethos and provides an overview of the CSSC Self Evaluation Ethos Toolkit and how it can contribute to ethos development. The link between ethos, vision, mission and values is also considered and the impact of a positive school ethos is explored.
Duration: 20 Minutes
Delivery: Online Pre-Recorded session will be available for 23/24 academic year
Governors and Ethos Two (Ethos Statement) examines the Governors’ role in establishing a clearly defined ethos statement for the school and considers the responsibilities of Governors in maintaining the school’s ethos by examining key relationships within the school community and how these can be fostered and developed.
Duration: 20 Minutes
Delivery: Online Pre-Recorded session will be available for 23/24 academic year
Governors and Ethos Three (Improvement Ethos) determines the fundamental role of ethos in school improvement. There will be exploration of ethos, vision and mission which are integral to the strategic direction of the school. Governors will reflect on the key elements of school improvement, how progress can be measured internally and externally and the importance of nurturing aspiration and setting high expectations as key components of school ethos.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Delivery: Online session
Date: 14 November 2023
Governors and Ethos Four (Challenge) reviews the features of effective school governance in leading the ethos of a school which include: leading the school with clarity and
direction, effective team-work, accountability mechanisms, strategic thinking and a drive for school improvement.
Governors will explore how challenge can be recognised and consideration will be given to the different types of challenge to school ethos. The OSKAR Coaching Model will be examined as a framework to address challenge. There will be a contribution from a serving Principal who explores challenge to ethos within a controlled school. Participants will also be introduced to an international theoretical model which can be used to evaluate school ethos.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Delivery: Online session
Date: 23 January 2024
Governors and Ethos Five (TIP Part 1) provides governors with an overview of how trauma informed practice can enrich a school’s ethos representing an approach which supports all children and young people. The session will provide a definition of trauma and adverse childhood experiences and explore the health and wellbeing impacts and behaviour that children may present with in the classroom. This module provides an overview of the Safeguarding Board Northern Ireland’s Level 2 training that CSSC can provide for schools and is recommended for the governors of schools considering or in the process of developing a trauma informed approach.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Delivery: Online session
Date: 6 February 2024
Governors and Ethos Six (TIP Part2) is a progressive developmental module which builds upon Governor awareness of trauma and adverse childhood experiences from Governors Ethos Five. This module considers how trauma informed approaches contribute to school ethos by supporting the resilience of children and young people. The importance of relationships and the presence of an emotionally available adult is explored as well as the importance of PACE approaches in supporting children and young people. Governors are encouraged to consider how a culture of safety and support can also be provided for staff thus supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of the adults who work with children and young people.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Delivery: Online session
Date: 27 February 2024
Governors and Ethos Seven (Coaching Ethos) advocates how a coaching approach to leadership can contribute to school ethos. Governors will explore the elements of a high performing team whilst raising their awareness of coaching skills and techniques, including active listening, asking good questions and providing effective feedback.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Delivery: Online session
Date: 7 May 2024
Governors and Ethos Eight (Community) establishes the important link Governors provide between the school and the community. Consideration will be given to what it means for a school to be at the heart of its community, how a school can reflect its local community and the role the community can play in supporting the school. The positive impact community groups have on school ethos and the contribution they make to the life of the school is also considered.
Duration: 45 Minutes
Delivery: Online session
Date: 21 May 2024
