How can ethical leadership influence school culture? A reflection on my leadership journey so far

JAMES CLEMENTS FCCT, FOREST SCHOOL, UK Throughout my journey in senior leadership, one question always surfaces: ‘What’s your leadership style?’ My answer always contains an element of ‘ethical leadership’. But beyond the buzzword, what does leading ethically truly involve and how does it shape school culture? This reflection delves into my role as a leader and highlights some research linking ethical leadership to school culture. The foundations of ethical leadership Ethical leadership, grounded in honesty, fairness and integrity, is fundamental to shaping a positive school environment (Ahmed, 2023). These core values guide decision-making, helping to establish an inclusive, supportive atmosphere for staff and pupils. Leading ethically involves transparency, care for all stakeholders and fostering a culture of respect and accountability. Ethical leadership is about embodying principles such as honesty, integrity and fairness and navigating the complexities of change with