What is APP (Applied Positive Psychology (APP) & Camps?

Applied Positive Psychology: Learning That Builds Confidence, Connection and Character

At The Gap State High School, our Applied Positive Psychology (APP) program is a cornerstone of our commitment to developing Learners Who Flourish. Te program is intentionally designed to support students not only academically, but socially, emotionally and personally throughout Years 7 to 11.

APP is more than a wellbeing subject. It is a structured, timetabled program that teaches students the skills they need to navigate challenge, build healthy relationships, develop resilience and understand themselves as learners and people. Through explicit teaching, experiential learning and reflection, students develop essential life skills such as resilience, self-awareness, emotional regulation, teamwork and leadership. These capabilities support students to navigate challenge, build healthy relationships and develop a strong sense of purpose and belonging.

A defining strength of the APP program is its experiential approach. Students learn by doing through challenge activities, teamwork, reflection and real-world problem solving. This approach recognises that growth often occurs when students are supported to step beyond what feels comfortable, in safe and carefully designed environments.

Why Camps Matter

Camps are a vital extension of the APP curriculum and are not considered an “extra”, but an essential part of the learning experience. Camps provide the time, space and continuity required for students to practise the skills they learn in class in authentic settings. They strengthen peer relationships, build independence, develop leadership and allow students to step outside their comfort zones in a supported and inclusive environment.

Each year level camp is carefully aligned to developmental needs. For younger students, camps focus on belonging, trust and connection. As students' progress through the school, camps increasingly emphasise responsibility, resilience, leadership and purpose. These shared experiences foster strong peer bonds and a sense of belonging that positively impacts engagement and learning back at school.

It is very common for students to feel nervous or hesitant prior to camp, and at times students may express that they do not want to attend. While these feelings are valid and acknowledged, they are often linked to uncertainty rather than a lack of capability. Camps are deliberately designed to help students live The Gap Mindset — to think big, step up, and grow through challenge. Avoiding challenge can feel easier in the moment, but confidence, resilience and self-belief are built by leaning into discomfort with encouragement and support.

Many students return from camp with a strong sense of pride, achievement and a deeper belief in what they are capable of.

What Parents Often Notice

Families frequently tell us they see positive changes in their child as they progress through the APP program, particularly following camps. Parents often notice:

• increased confidence and independence
• stronger communication and emotional awareness
• improved resilience when facing challenges
• deeper peer connections and a sense of belonging
• greater willingness to try new or difficult things

These changes develop gradually through consistent learning, reflection and experience, both in the classroom and through camps.

How Parents Can Support APP and Camps

Parents play an important role in reinforcing the learning that occurs through APP. Small, positive interactions at home can significantly strengthen the impact of the program.

Parents can support their child by:

• asking reflective questions such as “What did you learn about yourself today?”
• encouraging effort and persistence rather than focusing only on outcomes
• normalising nerves and discomfort as a natural part of growth
• noticing and naming character strengths such as perseverance, kindness or courage
• speaking positively about camps as important learning opportunities

When a student expresses reluctance about camp, family encouragement is particularly powerful. Supporting your young person to attend, even when it feels challenging, reinforces the message that growth comes from stepping forward, not stepping away. With shared encouragement from home and school, students are far more likely to engage fully and gain the lasting benefits these experiences offer.

Building Skills for Life

 The APP program reflects our belief that wellbeing and learning are deeply connected, and that when students are supported to flourish as individuals, they are better equipped to succeed in all areas of school life and beyond.