The Principal Barometer (Finland)

NOTE: Version 2 has corrected numbers for participants on years 2023 and 2024.

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. 

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.

More information about the Principal Barometer here.