Frame 1099

    The Systems Iceberg Reflection Tool

    A four-question reflection tool using Senge's systems iceberg model to help leaders and educators uncover the deeper structures and beliefs driving recurring wellbeing issues.

    Author/Source: PESA

    Last updated: 07/04/2026

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    The Systems Iceberg Reflection Tool

    Summary

    A strategic planning tool that uses Peter Senge's systems iceberg model (1990) to help school communities look beneath recurring wellbeing issues, rather than continuing to treat surface-level symptoms.

    Why it matters

    Observable events, such as Year 9 disengagement, staff burnout or rising absenteeism, are underpinned by less visible patterns, structures and mental models. Without engaging with these deeper layers, wellbeing initiatives risk addressing symptoms while leaving the underlying conditions fully intact. This tool gives leaders a structured way to find and act on the real drivers of change.

    Audience

    School leaders, wellbeing leads and educators involved in strategic planning, pastoral care or staff wellbeing.

    When to use it

    • A wellbeing concern keeps resurfacing despite repeated quick fixes

    • During planning days or strategic reviews

    • In leadership team reflections

    • As part of pastoral care reviews

    Key aspects

    • Four guided reflection questions moving from observable behaviours down to underlying beliefs and assumptions

    • Works best in pairs or small teams

    • Suits both one-off use for a specific issue and ongoing use as part of regular planning cycles

    • The benefit: Less time spent on symptom-level fixes, and a clear, concrete next step at the level where sustainable change actually happens.

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