In this first article, we will consider the importance of vision in relation to schools. In the second article, we will go on to explore ways to develop a vision in your school or department, which will provide a vital tool and companion on your school’s journey.
Before going on, I want you to be honest with yourself. Does your school have a vision? If so, do you know what it is? When was it last reviewed? Does it drive the school towards achieving its vision? If you think it does, can you articulate how it achieves this?
Are you happy with the answers you gave to the questions above? Are you being honest with yourself regarding this last question above?
I want to keep pushing you here because, in my own experiences, having worked with and visited many schools, I am often disappointed when I see how little their vision is thought about or discussed – and, more importantly, how little such a powerful tool is used to guide and direct a school towards excellence.
To what extent does your school or department follow its vision?
Almost all schools will have spent much time with their staff and governors (the more diligent schools also consult with students and parents) to form their vision and possibly a set of value statements which underpin this and help form the 'mission' – the activities and actions which will help you achieve your vision.