Social and Emotional Learning

At St John's we teach a Social and Emotional Learning Program (SEL) across the school. The program we use is called Second Steps. In Kindergarten-Year Two we have a specialist teacher, Miss Rachel Pearson who teaches this program for one hour a week in every classroom. From Years 3-6 the classroom teachers teach the program as part of their Health lessons. 

Students need social-emotional skills to thrive both in the classroom and in life. The Second Steps Program teaches students the techniques to:

• Gain confidence
• Set goals
• Make better decisions and choices
• Collaborate with others
• Navigate the world more effectively

The themes throughout the progam in each year level include skills for learning, empathy, emotion management, problem solving and friendship skills. 

Decades of research show the positive effects of universal, classroom-based SEL programs for children. There’s also broad recognition that benefits are even greater when children experience SEL throughout their day, across home, school, and out-of-school time environments, and throughout developmental stages. When implemented holistically, with a coordinated, community-wide approach, SEL can build stronger communities and support inclusive, equitable learning. Read more about the research a holistic approach to social- emotional learning here.

Rebekah Brown

Assistant Principal and Inclusion Coordinator