School ethos in Gozitan state primary schools

Abstract

This study, involving all State Primary Schools in Gozo, is an attempt to observe and discuss school ethos from four principal points of view, namely that of the Head of School, the Teachers, Year 6 students in each school and the parents of the respective Year 6 pupils. Questionnaires, specially constructed for each category, provided me with the opportunity of triangulating my research, thus making it more interesting and reliable. Respondents were very co-operative and a satisfying high percentage submitted their views by returning their filled-in questionnaires. Issues like school cleanliness, homework, relationships, mutual trust, collegiality, heads' accessibility to staff-members, teacher job satisfaction and involvement in decision-making and many other relevant factors that are associated with a healthy school climate have been investigated. Respondents' written suggestions, ideas and opinions have been analyzed and discussed. Results obtained emphasize the importance of promoting and maintaining a positive ethos in our schools. This can only by achieved through an ongoing dialogue between ALL the relevant partners.