The Principal Barometer

The Principal barometer is an ongoing follow-up study of principals, deputy principals, vice-principals, and school leaders of primary education or upper secondary education in Finland.
What is the purpose of this project?

The principal barometer is an extensive longitudinal study aimed at investigating the occupational well-being of Finnish principals. The research is carried out in co-operation between the University of Helsinki and Suomen Rehtorit ry (Association of Finnish school principals).  Our primary goal is to compare the well-being of Finnish principals with international data and other industries and professions. This project is part of the international Principal Health study, led by Professor Philip Riley from Australia, and involves collaboration with Australian Catholic University’s Institute for Positive Psychology and Education.

We utilise a comprehensive questionnaire to examine the principals' work situation, well-being, resources, and management practices. Additionally, we collect physiological data, such as HRV (heart rate variability) using the Firstbeat device, which tracks rest time, working time, and exercise. Our focus areas include recovery, job crafting, servant leadership, engagement, and burnout.

Who are the target groups?

Principals, deputy principals, vice-principals, and school leaders of primary education or upper secondary education. 

Data collection

The data for the study has been gathered once a year by on-line questionnaires since 2019 onwards. The data was collected as follows:

  • Year 2019: 531 participants.
  • Year 2020: 644 participants.
  • Year 2021: 541 participants.
  • Year 2022: 698 participants.
  • Year 2023: 493 participants.
  • Year 2024: 513 participants.

Find DOI (digital object identifier) for the principal barometer data here. 

Funding

The project has been funded by the Strategic Research Council (2021-2024) and Research Council of Finland (2024-).

Publications
Principal investigators
Co-principal investigators