Characteristics of High-Performing Schools

Insights for improving the educational environment

This Quick Insight examines the characteristics that make High-Performing Schools amid the complex challenges facing educational institutions. Drawing from a unique evidence-based framework, it highlights four critical factors—Quality of School Management, Quality of Internal Organization, Quality of Teachers and Staff and Quality of Educational Approach—that contribute to sustained excellence in both teaching and organizational practices. The study’s findings, based on data collected at three Dutch schools, offer valuable guidance for school leaders and policymakers aiming to enhance school performance and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The High-Performing Schools framework provides a practical and proven structure: Grounded in scientific research and practical application, the HPS framework helps schools sustainably improve both educational quality and organizational performance. It focuses on four core pillars: school management, internal organization, teachers and staff, and educational approach.
• Strong leadership is essential: Inspirational school leaders who set clear goals, coach their teams, and foster continuous improvement are key to creating a High-Performing School (HPS). Their leadership enhances performance and engagement across the school.
• Collaboration and growth at the core: High-Performing Schools are characterized by a culture of collaboration, learning, and innovation. They prioritize both personal and professional growth for teachers and staff, resulting in improved student outcomes.
• Clear educational vision and approach: High-Performing Schools have a well-defined vision for education, effective teaching methods, and a robust curriculum. They focus on continuous improvement and actively involve parents/caregivers and the community in the learning process.
• Applicable across all educational levels: The HPS framework is not only suited for primary schools but also for secondary and vocational education (VET). It offers school leaders at all levels a solid foundation for driving improvement.
• Insight leads to targeted action: By using the HPS framework, school leaders can develop focused strategies that result in measurable improvements in performance and engagement across their schools.

Read the full Quick Insight, ‘Characteristics of High-Performing Schools’, via this link!