Positive Education
Why is Positive Education?
Positive Education aims to marry the science of Positive Psychology with teaching and learning practices to ensure that all individuals have the capacity to flourish. At Albert Park College, to “flourish” is to go beyond just a sense of happiness or contentment. We want our young people to have purpose, make connections, celebrate accomplishments, and have a sense of greater purpose in the world, on top of having positive emotions that are at the heart of their general wellbeing.
We know from much research and study in the fields of neuroscience and psychology that student wellbeing has a deep impact on learning. While we are committed to assisting our students and managing issues as they arise, Positive Education places emphasis on preventative measures that help students grow into strong and powerful individuals who have the capacity to tackle life’s challenges independently and preemptively. By enhancing students’ skills in resilience and grit, Positive Education aims to equip students with skills to conquer adversity, however small it may be. In developing students’ strength and growth mindsets, Positive Education empowers our young people to recognise their potential and select the right skills in their arsenal to flourish in their changing world.
The 'Powers' of Positive Education
At Albert Park College, we believe that five key areas of Connection, Mental Health, Identity, Physical Health, and Choices all afford an individual great power in battling the changing world and all its challenges. At Albert Park College we believe in a pre-emptive model to wellbeing and mental health, and we know that when an individual is able to cultivate and nurture these "powers" in their life, they will flourish.
The Positive Education Model at Albert Park College focuses on these five powers across every year level, each year, to celebrate positivity and "nurture the whole person for the attainment of The Good Life". Positive Education is a stand-alone subject at every year level, where students meet with their Positive Education Mentor weekly. In addition, aspects of Positive Education and Positive Psychology are embedded throughout all disciplines and curriculum across the academic calendar.
'Raising children is about identifying and amplifying their strengths and virtues, and helping them find the niche where they can live these positive traits to the fullest.'
Martin Seligman