School Ethos

School ethos is difficult to define precisely and almost impossible to measure, but most of us know when the school ethos is strong or weak. The ethos centres on the school culture, spirit and its values system. It is to do with people and how they are treated, how they treat others and the values and expectations that underpin these relationships. The ethos of the school is the result of the collective effect of thousands of actions, interactions, words and ways. It is cumulative and can only change gradually. By collectively promoting, adhering to and insisting upon meeting the school's values and expectations, the school ethos will be strengthened. Putting effort into promoting positive values and standards in our relationships is an investment in the future health of the school as a community. In working to have a positive school ethos, we need:

praise and encouragement
high expectations
high standards
good relationships among all the individuals and groups involved in the school
positive working environment. Staff consistency in this area is vitally important.
All staff should vigorously promote relationships based on the School Values and on the "Rights and Responsibilities" for pupils. Staff should actively encourage self-control and personal responsibility in pupils. The climate created by teachers for the pupils is an important aspect of school effectiveness. Staff will help pupils greatly when they try to develop in pupils' key emotional characteristics such as resilience, persistence, optimism and self-worth. Teachers carry a responsibility to act both as role models of high standards and as developers of young people's values and aspirations. Their efforts in this direction will be greatly appreciated by the vast majority within the community. School ethos will also be greatly enhanced where there is a wide range of extra-curricular offered. Mintlaw Academy is very fortunate to have a large member of staff who give a great deal of time and energy to the running of extra-curricular activities. (see 'Information', 'Activities')