Culture Components - Symbols

One key component when examining organisational culture is symbols. Symbols can take many forms, including words, gestures, images, or objects that carry particular meaning within a culture. In a school setting, these symbols help shape perceptions, reinforce values, and communicate leadership priorities.

For example, a headteacher delivering a speech about a new teaching and learning policy—perhaps introduced by a newly appointed assistant headteacher—serves as more than just an announcement. It acts as a symbolic gesture of commitment to the policy and a public display of support for the new leader. These moments are powerful in shaping how staff and students perceive change and leadership within the school.

One of the most recognisable symbols of a school’s culture is its logo. A well-designed logo can instantly communicate an organisation’s ethos, history, and values. It becomes a visual shorthand for the school’s identity, reinforced through uniforms, signage, official documents, and even digital platforms. Beyond aesthetics, a logo can instil pride, unity, and a sense of belonging among students, staff, and the wider community.

However, cultural symbols in schools extend far beyond logos. Rituals, traditions, and shared language—such as school mottos, house systems, or annual events such as information evenings—play a vital role in reinforcing an institution’s values. School leaders, therefore, must be intentional about the symbols they create, promote, and sustain, as these elements shape the lived experience of the school community.

Symbols also take the form of rituals and traditions. Events like morning assemblies, or even simple greetings from school leaders contribute to the culture of a school. When a headteacher personally greets students at the gate each morning, it signals a culture of warmth, accessibility, and engagement. Similarly, recognising students’ achievements—whether through merit badges, certificates, or a place on an honours board—reinforces the school’s values of hard work and excellence.

Another crucial cultural symbol is language. The words and phrases used by school leaders help shape identity and expectations. A school that refers to its students as “scholars” rather than “pupils” subtly reinforces a culture of high aspiration. Storytelling is another powerful leadership tool—when a headteacher shares the school’s history or success stories, they create a shared narrative that strengthens the school’s identity.

Even the physical environment can serve as a cultural symbol. The layout of a school, the way classrooms are designed, and the presence of communal areas all communicate something about the school’s values. A school that dedicates a wall to student artwork highlights creativity. A quiet reflection garden signals a focus on well-being. Leaders must consider how their school’s spaces align with and reinforce its broader cultural message.

School leaders play a crucial role in shaping culture, and symbols are a powerful yet often overlooked aspect of this process. Whether through logos, rituals, language, or physical spaces, these symbols send messages about what is valued and prioritised within the school community. By being intentional about the symbols they cultivate, school leaders can create a culture that inspires, unites, and strengthens their school’s ethos.