As we’ve returned to school for Term 2, our conversations have been centred around Martin Seligman's PERMAH model, a strong evidence-base for Positive Education and Wellbeing. An element that falls under 'positive emotion' within the PERMAH model, which will be prominent within our developing wellbeing framework, is gratitude. Research in Positive Psychology and education has shown that cultivating gratitude can have a significant impact on the wellbeing and learning engagement of both students and the greater community. At the heart of our pastoral program sits the overarching priority that every individual is valued, supported, and empowered. By incorporating gratitude practices into our daily routines and greater school community, we can continue cultivate a nurturing environment where wellbeing thrives for all.

Gratitude is more than just saying "thank you." It's a mindset, a way of viewing the world through a lens of appreciation and acknowledgment for the good things in our lives, both big and small. When we intentionally practice gratitude, we train our brains to shift our focus, which can lead to greater resilience, improved connections, and therefore greater belonging and relationships within our community. On our Staff Day, our staffing community spent time reflecting on moments they are grateful for from the break, as well as a place on campus, a perspective or a connection whilst at work that they too are grateful for. Our students have also been taking moments to reflect on what they’re grateful for and sharing these as can be seen below:

We will continue to build practices of gratitude into our day-to-day at Ivanhoe Girls Grammar and will share ideas for our community to join us in this practice too!

But how exactly does gratitude benefit learning?

Drawing from the work of Lea Waters, we understand the importance of adopting a strengths-based approach to wellbeing. By focusing on the positive qualities and experiences within our school community, we can nurture resilience, promote positive relationships, and enhance overall flourishing. Waters' research emphasises the transformative power of gratitude in building resilience and fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

Studies have found that regularly expressing gratitude can lead to the development of a more positive outlook, which can help buffer against the stresses and pressures faced in day-to-day lives. Gratitude also fosters a sense of connection and belonging within the community. When individuals express gratitude to one another, it creates a culture of kindness and mutual support, leading to stronger relationships and a continued commitment to building an inclusive school culture, where everyone is seen and encouraged to achieve their personal best. Along with this, practicing gratitude provides students the tools to use in difficult situations, building resilience and coping skills. By focusing on what we are grateful for, we learn to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth and development, holding space for setbacks whilst utilising supports available to grow. Resources are available on SchoolTV.

As a community, it is vital we continue to recognise moments of gratitude, as well as the role we play in its development. Increasing positive emotions helps individuals build physical, intellectual, psychological, and social capacity that lead to resilience and overall wellbeing. I certainly am grateful for our community, the continued care shown throughout all interactions within our community and the beautiful campus we get to enjoy. As we look ahead, I encourage us all to continue building these practices, together.

Ms Karlie Payne
Director of Student Wellbeing