Culture and climate is often discussed, especially when it comes to school environments. According to Schein (2010, p18), organisational culture is “a pattern of shared basic assumptions”. It is embedded in a school or organisation and is caused primarily by values, attitudes and beliefs.

School culture is difficult to change, and can in turn influence organisational climate, a characteristic that is easier to change. Creating a positive classroom climate climate has been found to motivate people and improve bottom line performance by up to 30% in businesses (Hay Group, 2002) – why don’t we pay more attention to it in schools???

Creating displays that identify different learning skills can subconsciously help pupils recognise and use these skills. Using displays to celebrate progress in learning (not always just the finished product!) demonstrates that even amazing pieces of work must start somewhere!

YOU are responsible for your own learning environment; whether it be displays, or how the furniture is arranged, or prompt displays (what to do if you are stuck)… these things can all encourage pupils to work independently and identify behavioural skills in the classroom.

Here is a sample from one of our classrooms… can you do any better? Please comment or share your pictures if you have anything to add!