Positive Education at South Oakleigh College

Our Positive Approach

Positive Education combines academic learning with the development of character strengths to build student capacity of life-skills.  Based on the science of happiness and well-being, Positive Education prepares students academically, socially, cognitively, and emotionally for the rigours of everyday life.

At South Oakleigh College, we are focused on whole-student growth, encouraging each student to develop character strengths that promote our school values of High Expectations, Respect, Responsibility, Resilience, and Teamwork.  Staff members work closely with students inside and outside the classroom environment to strengthen their relationships and provide support structures to overcome obstacles.

A large part of the positive education initiative at South Oakleigh College is the Mentor Group system.  From Year 7, students are put into a Mentor Group with students from other year levels.  In this class, running for 20-minutes each day, students build relationships with other students, as well as their Mentor Teacher, who will remain with the student until they graduate in Year 12.  During Mentor Group, students build their character strengths through positive education initiatives, which translate over to academic, social, and emotional growth.

I will be updating the community about our latest initiatives and programs that engage in positive education, in every newsletter.  Updates will also be sent out through the Compass Newsfeed which will encourage parents and the community to engage in positive education strategies.

Tim Columbus

Banksia Head of House