What is SEAL?

Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning

Secondary SEAL – A Quick Guide

What are the Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning?

The underpinning qualities and skills that help us manage life and learning effectively.

There are five social and emotional aspects of learning…

Self-awareness

Managing feelings

Motivation

Empathy

Social Skills

What is secondary SEAL?

A comprehensive approach to promoting the social and emotional skills for all who learn and work in schools. It underpins:

• Effective learning • Positive behaviour and good attendance • Staff effectiveness • Emotional health and well-being • Positive relationships

What are the key elements ofSecondary SEAL?

These include;

• a whole-school approach to creating the climateand conditions that promote, reinforce andconsolidate the social and emotional skills• specific learning opportunities (during form time,across the main curriculum, in withdrawal groups)• learning and teaching approaches that support pupilsto learn social and emotional skills and help to consolidatethose already learnt• continuing professional development for the wholestaff of a school.

Some examples of SEAL Learning OutcomesSelf-awareness4. I recognise when I should feel pleased with, and proud of, myself and am

able to accept praise from others.9. I understand why feelings sometimes ‘take over’ or get out of control and

know what makes me angry or upsetManaging my feelings17. I understand how health can be affected by emotions and know a range of

ways to keep myself well and happy.Motivation20. I can break a long-term goal into small, achievable steps.Empathy31. I can work out how people are feeling through their words, body language,

gestures and tone, and pay attention to them.Social Skills39. I can communicate effectively with others, listening to what others say as

well as expressing my own thoughts and feelings.

Massage in Schools This is a worldwide

programme of peer-to-peer massage training…

For children to understand how massage is linked to well being and to gain an understanding how this can affect their learning.

To learn the peer-to-peer massage routine within their year group.

What is it? The programme develops nurturing touch in a

school setting.  It is based on respect and involves a formal massage routine and related activities.

The clothed, peer massage is: For children 4-12 years old Given and received with the child’s permission Given by the children, to each other On the back, head, arms and han Undertaken with respect All children have the right to say ‘no’ to touch and

still be included in the activity

Objectives To experience how the MISP can lead to a

change in attitude and behaviour. To use the MISP as a part of the transition to

secondary school and as a tool to develop positive social interactions.

To link to school values and the new SEAL learning outcomes

Background All children can benefit from use of positive touch. It is

used:

To calm children and improve concentration – massage works on the parasympathetic nervous system and can reduce adrenalin, increase serotonin etc

To develop social skills – children can learn empathy experientially and learn the language of permission and learn boundaries.

To avoid ‘yo-yo’ friendships and bullying in the early years To help children discuss their feelings As a tool for learning As a tool to develop a positive social network within the

transition stage of starting secondary school. To identify those children who require further support.