Positive Education:

The effect it has on learning

The Australian International School (AIS) has all the ingredients for academic success: excellent teachers, a globally recognised curriculum and stateof-the-art school facilities. But it’s not enough. Why not? ANDRE CASSON, AIS Head of School, says the greatest schools in the world can struggle with a child who is not emotionally in a “good place” for learning. This includes students who are experiencing self-esteem problems, peer-related issues and homesickness (a common condition in new expat kids).

That’s why AIS developed a structured Positive Education programme designed to promote students’ psychological wellbeing. The programme combines the science of Positive Psychology with best practice teaching techniques. It’s the cornerstone of STRIVE (Strength, Resilience, International Mindedness, Values and Engagement), the pastoral programme in AIS’S Secondary School. The focus on teaching positivity, rather than just paying lip service to it, has earned rave reviews from students, parents and teachers alike.

“The programme has been hugely influential in our school,” says Andre. “We have seen many positive outcomes, such as higher levels of personal confidence and emotional resilience in our kids.”

Techniques used in the programme include meditation, contemplation about positive personal experiences, circle time discussion groups and study skills coaching sessions. Students are taught how to tune in to their own self-talk and use selfreflection to explore their character strengths and personality traits. Responsible digital citizenship and a recognition of the internet’s role in building – and breaking down – self-confidence is a key tenet, too.

“Positivity – about yourself and the world around you – is vital to effective educational outcomes,” says Andre. “That’s why we tackle the hard issues, such as bullying, cyber safety and sexual education at age-appropriate times.” What does Positive Education teach? Kids learn specific skills to develop resiliency, understand mindfulness, strengthen relationships and live healthy lifestyles.

Positive Education starts in Early Years and runs throughout the AIS curriculum. For more information, call 6664 8127 or visit ais.com.sg.