The "F" word is not something you want to hear in your school, thank you very much (unless of course it is one of the following):
1. Flexibility
Every school is a work in progress and always changing, which means being adaptable and courageous in the face of difficult circumstances and situations.
2. Freedom
Schools have to give their teachers the freedom to teach and ownership over what they are doing. Trusting teachers is key.
3. Focus
Schools with a relentless focus on improvement will always be looking at ways to get better and never rest or accept their status quo.
4. Fairness
Schools treat everyone impartially, with respect and courtesy. They treat people without unlawful discrimination or prejudice, and ensuring no conflict of interests. They deal with people and issues objectively and consistently ensuring that decisions and actions are proportionate, appropriate and fair.
5. Foresightful
Strategic foresight is crucial to success in rapidly changing environments and effective schools engage in scenario planning weighing up the pros and cons and evaluate courses of action. They have at hand the answer to the question: '"What if?"
6. Family
This represents the essential ‘environment’ of all children. Effective schools are powerful family bases and a second home to a diverse population. They are living and breathing communities with powerful partnerships and identities.
7. Feedback
Schools give and take feedback. They review policies and procedures regularly to ensure they are effective. They ask for feedback and use it to improve services and performance. They ensure that teachers and departments learn from mistakes and complaints and use these to improve.
8. Forward-thinking
One of the key tasks of any school is to ensure that the children are being effectively prepared for adult life. They encourage creation and innovation and aim to be impactful by remaining relevant and not stagnating.
9. Future-oriented
Schools are a brand but they have to re-invent themselves and move with the times. Effective schools re-brand and continually adapt and roll with the times to do even better. It refers to parents and children's expectations and dreams for their future
10. Fun
A school without fun...just imagine what a soulless place that would be.
11. Fail
Great schools don't fear failure. They learn from it and they build on it as a game-changing strategic resource to help achieve greater success.
12. Feelings
Schools that put the emotional wellbeing of their population first are healthy and happy places to learn.
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About the author
John Dabell
John is an ex-primary school teacher and Ofsted inspector who has spent the last 20 years working in the education industry as a teacher, writer and editor. John’s specialist area is primary maths but he also loves teaching science and English. John has written a number of educational and children’s books, and contributed over 1,000 articles and features to various educational bodies. John is Eteach’s school leadership and Ofsted advice guru, sharing insights on best practice for motivating and enriching a school team, as well as sharing savvy career steps for headteachers and SLT.