🔍 Why SMART Targets?

Strong democratic culture in schools doesn't happen by accident — it requires clear goals and shared commitment.

That's why SMART targets are powerful. They help your school:

  • Translate democratic values into practical action
  • Track progress using clear indicators
  • Align everyone — pupils, teachers, leaders, and parents — around a common goal

A SMART goal is:

  • Specific – focused and clear
  • Measurable – progress can be tracked
  • Achievable – realistic for your school
  • Relevant – linked to democratic development
  • Time-bound – has a clear deadline

This approach is grounded in:

  • William Glasser’s theory of basic psychological needs (1998)
  • Sherry Arnstein’s ladder of participation (1969)
  • Council of Europe’s RFCDC democratic competences (2018)

🎯 Reflect: What kind of goals has your school set in the past? Were they SMART?

✅ When you're ready, click Continue to begin Step 1: Preparation.

References

Arnstein, S. R. (1969). A ladder of citizen participation. Journal of the American Institute of Planners, 35(4), 216–224. https://doi.org/10.1080/01944366908977225

Council of Europe. (2018). Reference framework of competences for democratic culture (RFCDC). Council of Europe Publishing.

Glasser, W. (1998). Choice theory: A new psychology of personal freedom. HarperPerennial.