European Trade Union Committee for Education

To create a positive and democratic school culture, it is essential to embrace collaborative and collegial leadership in education institutions and systems. This means involving teachers and the entire pedagogical community in decision-making processes, setting shared goals and working towards their fulfilment. Teachers, trainers, academics, and other education personnel should be considered leaders in their profession, and their input and expertise should be valued in developing and reforming educational policies and programmes. Education professionals and union representatives should be actively involved in democratic and collaborative leadership to establish a culture of peace, tolerance, equity, inclusiveness, and cooperation. Effective teaching and learning can be achieved by providing necessary resources, support, and motivation for school leaders, teachers, and students.

School leaders have a crucial role in developing fundamental values in schools, and it is essential to recognise and value their work. They should not only be administrators but also pedagogical leaders who foster collaboration among teachers and between teachers and students. Social dialogue and collegial governance are crucial in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of leadership. School leaders have a critical role in ensuring equality, freedom of speech, and human rights in schools, and a democratic school culture can only be achieved through collaborative and collegial leadership.