The Geelong Grammar Positive Psychology Experience

Abstract

The emergence of the positive psychology movement has seen a significant redirection of scientific inquiry towards the exploration of optimal human functioning, and interest is now growing in how this knowledge can be applied in real-world settings. Positive Education refers to the application of positive psychology in schools. Social emotional learning (SEL) is a critical component of Positive Education, though Positive Education also incorporates a focus on other factors such as character strengths and the development of meaning and purpose. Geelong Grammar School (GGS) is an independent, Anglican, co-educational, boarding, and day school. It is located across four campuses in Victoria, Australia, with over 1500 students. In 2008, during a 6 month visit by Professor Martin Seligman and with extensive support from his colleagues, GGS began implementing positive psychology as a whole-school approach. Positive Education as implemented at GGS seeks to combine principles of positive psychology with best practice teaching and educational paradigms to promote optimal development and flourishing in the school setting. This chapter discusses (1) the GGS ‘road map’ to implementing Positive Education as a whole-school approach, (2) ongoing research and evaluation efforts to further understand the impact of the programme at the level of staff, students, and the broader school community, (3) key practice issues, and (4) challenges and opportunities for further programme development. Positive Education continues to experience growing momentum both in Australia and internationally, and holds promise as a means of contributing to the well-being of school communities.