Positive Education
Positive education has been a way of teaching and developing students for centuries. The new form of "Positive Education" is based on the science of optimal functioning, known as Positive Psychology. This field is the scientific study of flourishing. It is also defined as the study of character strengths and virtues, positive emotions, positive experiences and positive environments that enable individuals, communities and organisations to thrive.
Accordingly, the term "Positive Education" refers to applications and practices in schools of positive psychology and associated research based fields that enhance the functioning of those involved in education at student, teacher and management levels and assists them to flourish in holistic ways. "Schools are now seen as institutions whose role extends beyond academic competence to preparing the whole child" (Huitt, 2010).
Current Practice in Australia
Professor Martin Seligman, the Founder of Positive Psychology, has said, "Australia is a shining example of the application of positive psychology."
There are a wide variety of approaches to Positive Education implemented by various schools. These include: as a strategy and whole of school approach, as part of the curriculum for example for Year 8 & 9; or as learning for counsellors, teachers, pastoral care coordinators and/or students.
Programmes Offered by Positive Education Australia for School Staff
- Introduction to Positive Education Talks (1-2 hours)
- Introduction to Positive Education - Half Day Workshop
- Positive Education Lab - One Day Workshop
- Strengths in Schools - One Day Workshop
- Psychological Capital - Two One Day Workshops
- Positive Leadership Coaching Programme
- Bespoke Programmes for High Schools at teacher, counsellor, pastoral care staff and principal levels.
Methodology
The methodology used in conducting sessions and programmes in schools is both research based and experiential. CEO, Kayt Raymond, has worked in schools and businesses for decades and finds this approach effective for supporting individual and group learning, change and development, increased job meaning and well being, and improved results.
Each programme has Individual Profiles, Key Learning Outcomes, Reading Material, Handouts, Evaluations and Measurement.
From personal experience Positive Education Australia knows the many demands on teachers, counsellors, pastoral care coordinators and principals in schools. And, it is a true pleasure to support those individuals who are open to and interested in the application and practices of positive education in schools.
"I have found these applications and processes powerful in achieving transformation and tangible outcomes for those who apply their learning. Regardless of age or experience, Positive Education is a new way to bring more joy, optimism, self-trust, strength and success into each individual's work and life." Kayt Raymond
