flourish 2019 - perth college · the positivity institute helen aguiar principal of perth college...

Saturday 26 OctoberPerth College, Mount Lawley, Perth

8.30 am to 4.30 pm

Flourish2019

Creating a flourishing world from the InsideOut

Welcome

Photo: Perth College Girls at rowing training

Dr Suzy GreenFounder and CEO of

The Positivity InstituteHelen Aguiar

Principal of Perth CollegeWe often hear of the increase in the rates of depression, anxiety and other wellbeing issues. We seldom hear about how to effectively empower young people, families and adults to proactively manage and protect against such challenges. For us at Perth College, InsideOut (our positive education wellbeing through leadership framework) creates the foundation for all of our students, staff and families to grow positive wellbeing. We have tracked, through longitudinal research studies, the growing levels of confidence, empowerment and general positive wellbeing evidenced in our students. The positive education lens has seen our students, families and staff work together to see our young people FLOURISH. Now, for the fifth year, we offer the opportunity for educators and parents from all over Australia and the world to come together in unison to share and grow our knowledge on all things ‘wellbeing’. In addition, this year we also welcome our past students who will have the opportunity to build on the strategies they were exposed to whilst at school to equip themselves further to deal with life’s challenges. We welcome you to our 2019 conference and look forward to nourishing positive wellbeing growth with you.

I’m honoured to be a part of the 2019 Flourish Conference hosted by Perth College. For the past 4 years The Positivity Institute and Perth College have collaborated and successfully celebrated the advancement of Positive Education in Perth and beyond. I’m also honoured to have had the opportunity to partner with Perth College during this time as WA pioneers in promoting the proactive approach to wellbeing, resilience and in building personal and social capabilities of students, staff, families and the community. This year, it is with much delight, that we launch a conference aimed at stimulating further interest, discussions and uptake of the scientifically supported research of Positive Psychology and Positive Organisational Scholarship to create flourishing schools, workplaces and communities.

We welcome educators, parents, grandparents, leaders and anyone who wants to live their best lives and be the best they can be. Research on social and emotional contagion theory supports the idea that when we flourish, we positively effect those around us. Thank you for your contribution to creating a flourishing world.

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Keynote Speakers

Photo by Boarding parent Angie Roe: Perth College Chapel window

Keynote Speakers

Dr Suzy GreenThe Positivity Institute

Dr Suzy Green is a Clinical and Coaching Psychologist (MAPS) and Founder of The Positivity Institute, a positively deviant organisation dedicated to the research and application of positive psychology for life, school and work.

Flourishing? The What, Why and HowThe term flourishing is used extensively in the scientific field of Positive Psychology however outside of the field there is limited understanding as to what it means, psychologically speaking, why it’s important and how best to go about creating lives and a flourishing world. Schools are one of the key institutions in our communities taking a proactive approach and leading the way. Through the associated field of Positive Education, schools are now teaching the explicit skills of wellbeing and resilience to staff, students and school communities and creating positive school cultures with the aim of preventing mental illness, increasing psychological wellbeing and improving overall human capability for life and work. In this keynote Suzy will give an overview of what it means to truly flourish, why it’s essential that we teach these skills proactively in our schools, workplaces and communities and how best to go about doing this.

Julian PaceHappiness Co

Happiness Co has the ultimate vision to reduce the impact unhappiness, depression and anxiety has on our community. Its ability to create one-of-a-kind live workshops and programs makes them a social movement like no other. Whether it’s for the individual, workplace or school - our relatable tools make understanding happiness attainable.

In this presentation Julian will share the Happiness Co story, cover how you can use resourcefulness instead of relying on resources and give practical tools for being better tomorrow than you were today.

Keynote 8.45 am to 9.25 am Keynote 11.25 am to 12.10 pm

Melissa Barker Starlight Children’s Foundation

Melissa is a Wellbeing Coach, passionate about supporting people to live a flourishing life. Specialising in Learning & Development and wellbeing, Melissa works at Starlight Children’s Foundation and is currently studying her Masters in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology.

The Starlight Children’s Foundation exists to brighten the lives of seriously ill children, young people and their families by delivering programs which support their wellbeing and resilience. Its programs and internal culture are built upon the science of positive psychology to enhance wellbeing. Its wellness program, ‘Positivity@Starlight’, is now embedded in its culture and the team has delivered workshops at the Executive, People Manager, and team level focused on Martin Seligman’s PERMA theory of wellbeing, character strengths, mindfulness and fostering a growth mindset. The desired outcome of Positivity@Starlight is to support the team to be happier, healthier and more engaged in their work, which translates into high performance and positive impacts. Starlight’s goal is to become the most positive place to work in the universe, and the Starlight team feel they are well on their way.

Gihan PereraFit for the Future

Gihan Perera is a futurist, conference speaker, author and consultant who gives you a glimpse into what’s ahead – and how you can become fit for the future, in your professional and personal life.

Since 1997, he has worked with business leaders, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and other change agents – helping them with their strategy for thriving in a fast-changing world.

In 2012, Forbes magazine rated him the #5 social media influencer in the world (and #1 in Australia) in his area of expertise.

Thriving, not just surviving, in a disrupted world.Digital disruption, global reach, and the changing workplace affect us all. That’s bad news if you’re not willing to change, but exciting news if you’re willing to embrace the new opportunities.

Take an inspiring, eye-opening, and engaging ride into the future to learn about the global megatrends shaping your industry, the mindset that helps you lead the change, and the skills you need to get things done in a fast-changing world.

Keynote 1.00 pm to 1.35 pm Keynote 2.45 pm to 3.45 pm

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Breakout Session 1 - 9.35 am to 10.10 am

Photo: Perth College students participating in he Perth College Leadership Camp

8.00 - 8.30 Conference Registration Judith Cottier Theatre

8.30 - 8.45 Acknowledgement of Country Welcome Youth Theatre Judith Cottier Theatre

8.45 - 9.25 Keynote 1 - Dr Suzy Green Flourishing? The What, Why and How Judith Cottier Theatre

9.35 -10.10 Breakout Session 1

10.15-10.45 Morning Tea Excelsior House, Dining Room

Claire Orange

Best Programs 4 Kids

Regulation, Resilience & Anxiety

The road to regulation and resilience is long and bumpy – and sometimes made even bumpier when a child experiences anxiety. Childhood anxiety put lots of detours, stop signs and pot-holes along the life-learning journey that need extra time and skill-training to overcome. In this workshop let’s look at the neural circuitry of regulation

and resilience, what gets in the way, and what’s needed to build a firm foundation – for every child. Let’s overlay the anxiety lens and see how this interrupts the development of these pathways and explore ways we can help a child not only cope, but to thrive. Learn some tips and tricks to help every child to lay down stronger

regulation and resilience pathways – and ones that every child experiencing anxiety will need an even bigger leg-up with.

Room 7 and 8, Excelsior House

Getting the Balance Right:Addressing the social and emotional needs of students in a changing world

The need for social and emotional learning in Australian schools is evident more than ever before, but what are the critical elements that need to be taught? Throughout their educational journey, students not only face the daily challenges of learning they are also adapting to the complex demands of growth and development, significant brain restructuring and now new environmental impacts such as online technology. Deficits in social and emotional learning throughout key stages of development journeys can lead to long-term learning and behaviour difficulties. During this presentation we will identify some of the critical stages of development that impact students’ journey and link the key social and emotional learning areas needed to support their progress.

Erin Erceg

Telethon Kids InstituteJudith Cottier Theatre

Positive Psychology 101

International research and practice reveals the enormous value of positive psychology to improving levels of wellbeing. Join world-leader in positive psychology and founder of The Positivity Institute, Dr Suzy Green D.Psyc.(Clin.) MAPS, as she shares the evidence for and benefits of implementing a positive psychology model at home. Suzy will provide an introduction to the field of positive psychology and positive education for those new to the area or with limited knowledge of this growing field. The workshop will also give participants the opportunity to experience the benefits of positive psychology interventions for themselves, their children and their families.

Dr Suzy Green

The Positivity InstituteSewell Studio, Excelsior House

9Photo: Perth College students on Year 10 Camp


Joel Birch

Firebird Learning

LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®

LEGO SERIOUS PLAY is a tangible, interactive tool that can be used in many ways to explore aspects of life in general. The LEGO SERIOUS PLAY methodology taps into our human ability to imagine – to describe and make sense of the challenges we face or the potential we seek to realise. By enabling deeper learning, it can initiate personal and systemic change and improvement.

The LEGO SERIOUS PLAY methodology is a facilitated technique which unlocks the potential of all the participants in the workshop. At its core, it is about understanding complexity and using emergent thinking to solve sticky problems and create real change.

In this workshop participants will experience LEGO SERIOUS PLAY in a process of appreciative inquiry into identity, values, and challenges using the bricks as metaphors for storytelling, and as catalysts for powerful conversation.

Field Studio, Excelsior House

Positive Leadership: Bringing Positive Psychology to Leadership in Education

This workshop will provide an introduction to Positive Leadership (Cameron, 2012) and highlight the role of the School Leader as a key lever in the strategic implementation of Positive Education. Participants will be introduced to Cameron’s model of Positive Leadership. Specific actions will be identified to align current leadership practices to the theory and practice of Positive Leadership and Positive Psychology more broadly.

Kate Wilkie

The Positivity InstituteRoom 1 and 2, Excelsior House

11Photo taken by a Perth College boarding family:

Perth College ‘Boarders at Home’ Social Media series


10.45 - 11.20 Breakout Session 2

11.25 - 12.10 Keynote 2 - Julian Pace Happiness Co. Judith Cottier Theatre

12.10 - 1.00 Lunch Excelsior House, Dining Room

12.20 - 12.50 Optional Round-Table discussion (Page 15)

1.00 - 1.35 Keynote 3 - Melissa Barker Starlight Children’s Foundation Judith Cottier Theatre

James Lenigas

General Manager - Schools Ministry GroupRoom 1 and 2, Excelsior House

The Wellbeing Classroom for Your School

The Wellbeing Classroom is an evidence-based early support system aiming to reduce bullying relationships and nurture people experiencing trauma. The framework focuses on the development of a common language across the classroom with special attention to feelings, emotions and building students’ capacity. This is done by using tools such as Kimochis to practically enhance the wellbeing of students and embed tools for students, teachers and parents.

Andrew Barrett

abcEd - Director of Education

Why are Staffroom Dynamics and Understanding your Colleagues so Important?

The abcEd presentation is a mix of practical strategies for face-to-face, written and phone communication, understanding personalities, real school examples and simple tips that can make a big impact in how a school communicates and will apply to teachers, students and the wider community.

A few of the takeaways:

1. How understanding the diversity of personalities in your staffroom can make a positive impact on the culture of the school through modifying behaviour and understanding why people act the way they do.

2. How understanding and tone can be lost in an email and new ideas of communication can create more effective and productive teams. “Seek first to understand and then be understood” - Stephen Covey.

3. Effectively communicating with students to enhance relationships, understanding and sense of belonging for all.

4. How does your school communicate to the wider community and the vitally important role it plays in branding your school and why is it so important?

Sewell Studio, Excelsior House

13Photo: Perth College student participating in Dance for Kindness



Fiona Perrella

Strength Heroes

The Emotional Wizzy Dizzy of Mistake Making

As adults we know one of the ways we learn is from our mistakes. Teaching this to children is a challenge. In this hands-on workshop we explore:

• the emotional reality of mistake-making using art and play techniques; and • how to challenge children to deal with the emotions that come with mistake

making and face it with a growth mindset.

Whether you are a parent or teacher this workshop will add to your toolkit, giving you strategies and techniques to grow confident and excited mistake makers.

Joel Birch

Firebird Learning


LEGO SERIOUS PLAY is a tangible, interactive tool that can be used in many ways to explore aspects of life in general. The LEGO SERIOUS PLAY methodology taps into our human ability to imagine – to describe and make sense of the challenges we face or the potentials we seek to realise.

By enabling deeper learning, it can initiate personal and systemic change and improvement.




Ellie Scarf

The Positivity InstituteJudith Cottier Theatre

Mental Toughness

A topic relevant for work, life and education, this session introduces the 4 Cs model of Mental Toughness. Mental Toughness is defined as a personality trait which determines, in large part, how people deal effectively with challenge, stressors and pressure… irrespective of circumstances (Clough & Strycharczyk, 2015) the 4 Cs represent the developable components of this trait.

Through the session we will explore the impact of the 4 Cs, Commitment, Challenge, Control and Confidence, on flourishing across the domains of our lives. In this session, participants will reflect on their own Mental Toughness across these domains, explore the difference between mental toughness and resilience, and will leave with some practical tools to boost their own Mental Toughness.

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Round-Table Discussion - 12.20 pm to 12.50 pm

Photo: Perth College students staring in The Sound of Music

Round-Table Discussion - 12.20 pm to 12.50 pm

The Power of the Picture Book in Positive EducationKristine Sanders and Danny Parker - Table 1

Are Picture Books written for children or adults or those in between? This round table will challenge your thinking and you will walk away realizing not only the power of picture books in developing wellbeing literacy at all ages, but how they can be used to connect many stakeholders within an educational institution and be a platform to launch positive psychology projects. Picture books hold a secret space, a special somewhere that exists between the words and the images. We can use them to explore the science of Positive Psychology in exciting, meaningful and engaging ways. Kristine and Danny will share how they intend to use ‘No Ordinary Day’ - a picture book that has been specifically written to support Positive Education at Perth College in 2020.

A Journey in Positive LeadershipKathryn Netherwood - Table 2

A personal reflection on developing positive leadership skills. Using Kim Cameron’s Positive Leadership model I focused on the four strategies of Positive Leadership: Positive Climate, Positive Relationships, Positive Communication and Positive Meaning (Cameron, 2012). In order to improve my effectiveness as a school leader I identified key positive leadership skills that worked well in my school context and began to build and embed these skills in my everyday practice. Positive Leadership is a strategy that can promote and build a positive school culture with flourishing individuals within a flourishing school.

Using Appreciative Inquiry to Engage Parents on the Wellbeing JourneyKatrina Harrison, Graham Richards and Joe Barnes - Table 3

In 2017, Perth College adopted an Appreciative Inquiry (AI) approach with the parents of Early Learning students to enhance parent engagement. The aim was to further engage families, and also to build a social network that encourages open communication and invites parents to be active strengthening Perth College as an institution, whilst being emotionally involved in their child’s development and learning. In this session, we will share how this evolved and expanded within the organisation and our successes using this approach to build a thriving community.

Flourishing Learning Opportunities at Work (FLOW)Steve Wynhorst - Table 4

All academic staff at Perth College are involved in a professional growth and development process (FLOW). FLOW is a strengths-based approach to staff development that combines positive psychology, peer coaching, and a commitment to being a true ‘community of learners’. The presentation will share the steps involved in this significant cultural change of implementing the FLOW model, the benefits gained, and future ambitions for our school.

Generation Joy! An Intergenerational Service Learning Experience with John Wollaston School and Amana LivingWayne Revitt - Table 5

You may have seen the excellent, heart warming ABC program Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, where a small group of children visit an aged care facility to interact with the residents. We would like to share our similar projects with Amana Living. Our first was an Intergenerational Arts Festival in conjunction with artists and musicians from the Globe Town Project; a Fremantle based charity that promotes wellbeing and collaboration through storytelling and creative arts practice. Our aim was to celebrate the skills and strengths of older and younger people and build a lasting beneficial relationship between them. The project gave participants an exchange of experience and an opportunity to discover the real people behind the stereotype. The final performance and celebration did not leave a dry eye at our assembly! We will share in the feeling of excitement that comes from creating something special together. Building on this, we have established an Intergenerational Choir, which is going from strength to strength. Our students and the Amana residents have bonded through music. The Choir named themselves Generation Joy, which perfectly captures the feeling and mood each session. Generation Joy performed at National Anglicare Conference recently, held at the Pan Pacific Hotel. Their performance was beautiful. We now had requests from other organisations to perform, and queries about how much we charge! This is a wonderful opportunity for John Wollaston and Amana Living to showcase the positive relationships developed through intergenerational activities, and we are very proud of our partnership.

Whole School Wellbeing – Taking the Next StepJo Wiese and Luisa Rossi - Table 6

Schools play a pivotal role in supporting and enabling their school communities to flourish. However, the implementation of whole school wellbeing initiatives can be an onerous and daunting task with different levels of buy-in from members of the school community. Jo and Luisa will share some of the latest research in this field and share insights and experiences from schools navigating this journey. Regardless of where your school is at on this journey, join us for a discussion on next steps, potential pitfalls and lessons from the field.

Applying Positive Psychology in the Preparatory ClassroomKellie Heary - Table 7

In the Preparatory classroom my vision is to foster wellbeing and enhance educational outcomes by endorsing, teaching and infusing the concepts of Positive Psychology. In this presentation, I will share many of the initiatives that I have embedded into my classroom. Be prepared to walk away with ideas you can directly implement into your next lesson.

Shout Out to PC GirlsHelen Avery and Jessica Vuckovic- Table 8

Helen Avery (Learning Engagement) and Jessica Vuckovic (Head of Humanities and Social Sciences) are teachers at Perth College

who developed an Oral History Project to integrate Positive Psychology, Pastoral Care and Humanities and Social

Sciences skills through a community project. The project was born out of conversations about how to make stronger links between our students and the community. The aim therefore was to develop our students’ abilities to build connections and learn more about what it means to flourish from community members from different walks of life. We will share how we brought different stakeholders on board, the outline of the project and share the resources necessary to implement a similar community project in your own context.

The Woodvale Positive Education JourneyVeronika Sutton - Table 9

Since 2014 Woodvale Secondary College has implemented a whole school approach to the embedding of positive psychology. Veronika Sutton is currently completing a PhD case study on this implementation with a focus on the challenges that students face as they transition into secondary school and whether the explicit teaching of positive education helps them; whether the explicit teaching of positive education reduces teacher stress, and the challenges and enablers to implementing a whole school positive psychology program in a secondary government school context. The Woodvale Secondary College journey will be shared in this session.

Putting Positive Education to work in the classroomAndrew Boxsell - Table 10

During this session we will look some of the initiatives we have implemented at Loreto Nedlands that are easily transferrable to any classroom. We will look at character strengths and how they can help learning and behaviour. We will discuss mindsets and explore how the way we speak and give feedback can help build up or break down these mindsets and visit the idea of taking a different approach to school rules and making them more child friendly for the benefit of the whole school.

The Healthy Relationships ForumShani Andrews and Amanda Madden - Table 11

Amanda and Shani will share information on the creation of their Healthy Relationships Forum. The Healthy Relationship Forum encourages adolescents to discuss past and present relationships while educating them about respect for themselves and mutual respect for others. The Healthy Relationships Forum looks at both sexual and non-sexual relationships and themes like healthy relationships, respect, and consent are highlighted. The forum takes the form of a student lead Global café, an Expert panel and finishes with a Student panel.

17Photo taken by a Perth College Boarding family: Perth

College ‘Boarders at Home’ series

Judith Cottier Theatre

Breakout Session 3 - 1.40 pm to 2.10 pm

1.40 - 2.10 Breakout Session 3

2.15 - 2.45 Afternoon Tea Excelsior House, Dining Room

2.45 - 3.45 Keynote 4 - Gihan Perera Futurist Judith Cottier Theatre

3.50 - 4.20 Words of Wisdom BurnBright and student mentors – The Power of Story Judith Cottier Theatre

4.20 - 4.30 Closing and Thank you

Gihan Perera

Futurist

Disruption By DesignInnovate from the Inside Out

Our world is changing faster than ever, and your organisation will be disrupted, sooner or later. But you don’t have to wait to be disrupted! Disruption is when change happens to you; innovation is when you create change yourself. Instead of being at the mercy of external pressures, take the lead and create positive disruption – by design.

Sewell Studio, Excelsior House

Ben Calleja

Growth Coaching International

Solutions Focus Strategy Planning

“Plans are useless, but planning is everything!” This session introduces solutions, focus thinking and processes to how we can conduct strategic planning as individuals, in teams or for whole organisations.

The process gives clarity in the strategic direction needed, while honouring the complex, changing nature of our environment. This means building accountability for movement forward through an ongoing process of small step planning and working with positive difference.

Participants will use real scenarios to see the process in action—walking away with their own one-page strategy.

Anna Sangster

Perth Health and Fertility

Food and Mood: How Diet Impacts Teenage Behaviour

Anxiety, depression, poor focus, poor academic performance and self-control issues can all be related to a poor diet. Many teenagers and their parents are unaware of the significant impact their dietary choices may be having on their mood and performance at school. Australia

is leading some of the most exciting research globally into the impact of nutrition on mental health. This information needs to be shared with the wider community. Anna Sangster and her team at Perth Health and Fertility work with countless families to educate and address both

children and adults to improve both physical and mental health.


19Photo: Perth College students at Inglewood Triangle

Breakout Session 3 - 1.40 pm to 2.10 pm

Joel Birch

Firebird Learning


LEGO SERIOUS PLAY is a tangible, interactive tool that can be used in many ways to explore aspects of life in general. The LEGO SERIOUS PLAY methodology taps into our human ability to imagine – to describe and make sense of the challenges we face or the potential we seek to realise. By enabling deeper learning, it can initiate personal and systemic change and improvement.




Claire Orange

Best Programs 4 Kids

Boys And Girls – They’re Different

Have you ever wondered if the ‘women can multi-task’ myth is actually true? What about the bloke who hates to shop – unless it’s straight in and out? Is there some science to back this up? This is a fun, thought-pro-voking workshop that draws on the latest in neuroscience findings to explore gender-based difference in the development of the emotional, relational and language centres of the brain.

Knowing this helps you to change the way you work at home or in the classroom to get the most out of every child. Every brain has its own sensitivities and particular needs and when we add some thinking about boys and girls we can move forward with even greater purpose, empathy and knowledge. So, fact or fiction – men are from Mars and women are from Venus – come along and find out.


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Presenter Biographies

Ben Calleja Director, CCSolutions / Growth Coaching(M.Ed, M.Coun&Psych, B.Ed, Accredited Coach)Ben’s keen interest and skill is are developing the capacity of educators and leaders to be self-reflective practitioners, and use their strengths to communicate clearly, build high-trust professional relationships, and create useful change that positively impacts the lives of students.

Ben is an executive coach, facilitator, and is Director of CCSolutions and Growth Coaching WA, SA, NT. Prior to this, he has worked as an educational leader across primary and secondary schools, in both Australia and the United States. His passion has been working with at-risk and marginalised students to provide equal access to high quality education and engagement.

Photo: Perth College dancers in the SPIN Connect showcase Photo: Perth College dancers in the SPIN Connect showcase

Presenter BiographiesAndy Barrett abcEd Director of EducationAndy Barrett is an experienced teacher, trainer and facilitator who delivers leadership development workshops for schools on staffroom dynamics, communication, connection and team cohesion.

Andy is also an external facilitator for the Department of Education Graduate Induction Program, Consultant for The Innovation Institute and Manager of the HappinessCo edU initiative. Andy has previously worked as the State Manager of Principals Australia Institute where he supported primary schools in implementing cultural changes in schools through the KidsMatter mental health and wellbeing frameworks. Andy is still working as a relief teacher at a variety of High Schools.

James Lenigas General Manager (Training & Wellbeing) Schools Ministry Group(Cert IV Youth Work, BMin, MET, PGCertBL)James has 10 years of experience working collaboratively to enhance wellbeing in school communities and has been involved in the development and implementation of the Wellbeing Classroom since its launch in 2014. James is a certified Kimochis trainer and combines his classroom experience to ensure that his training is relevant and full of real life examples. He is optimistic for a future in which Australians understand their own and others’ emotions in a deeper way.

Joel Birch Joel Birch founded Firebird Learning and The Very Serious Business Co with the simple goal of creating opportunities to learn by connecting curiosity with creativity, working with learners of all ages, both inside and out of schools. An experienced educator and professional learning facilitator, he also works with teams and organisations to help them solve complex problems and communicate powerfully using LEGO SERIOUS PLAY.

Erin ErcegCurrently an Honorary Research Associate and National Director of the Friendly Schools Project with Telethon Kids Institute, plus Researcher and Writer for The Fathering Project, University of Western Australia.Erin’s most significant work has been in child and youth research relates to school and community-based interventions to enhance social and emotional development and reduce anti-social behaviour among young people. She is the co-author of Friendly Schools, an internationally recognised research project to reduce bullying in Primary and Secondary schools. This research has included 15 major research studies involving 35,000 Australian students from Pre-Primary to Year 12 plus their teachers, parents and school administrators.

Other areas include: capacity building for wellbeing in schools; cyber safety education; secondary school transition, and social and emotional development; building school capacity to engage parents; and; self-esteem and resilience in young people. Erin has worked as a teacher in both primary and secondary school classes, as a development officer for health and wellbeing programs for the WA Education Department, and as a consultant with community builders in youth suicide prevention.

Old girl of PC - 1975 Leaver (boarder)Daughter Kate – 2011 Leaver

Claire OrangeClaire is a director of BEST Programs 4 Kids and the mum of 4 boys. She is a multi-qualified therapist with 25 years experience, Channel 9’s and 6PR’s resident Family Therapist and Parenting Coach and passionate advocate for the wellbeing of children and their families everywhere.

Anna SangsterAnna is a naturopath with nearly 2 decades of clinical experience. Anna

established Perth Health and Fertility in 2004 as a centre of Naturopathic Excellence, employing naturopaths who specialise in the area of general

naturopathy and reproductive health. Anna is currently doing her Masters of Reproductive Medicine through the University of NSW.

Fiona Perrella

Fiona Perrella is Strengths Heroes’ Creative and Play Director. She also brings her experience as an organisational development consultant, trainer and coach who has worked with organisations, individuals and children for over 20 years to assist people challenge their thinking and change their behaviour to achieve success. She established Art of Resilience which used art and play to develop confident and strong children using the principles of positive psychology. In 2017, a strengths approach and framework was formally adopted and Strength Heroes was born. In addition to children’s holiday and after-school workshops, other services have now been added such as incursions, professional development, parent and children workshops, parenting workshops and family coaching for families, schools and community groups.

Website: www.strengthheroes.com.au LinkedIn: Fiona Perrella or Strength Heroes

Ellie ScarfEllie Scarf BA, LLB is a coach, consultant and facilitator (and former lawyer!) with over 10 years’ experience working with individuals and teams to support organisational objectives as well as the personal growth of those she works with. Ellie is a member of the University of Sydney Coaching & Mentoring Association (USCMA) and the International Society for Coaching Psychology (ISCP). Ellie works closely with Dr Suzy Green as a Senior Associate of

The Positivity Institute, based in Perth.

Kate WilkieKate holds a Masters of Science (Coaching Psychology) from the University of Sydney and she is a Professional Member of the International Coach Federation (ICF), the International Positive Psychology Association (IPPA) and an Affiliate Member of the International Society for Coaching Psychology (ISCP). She is a certified Strengths Profile Practitioner accredited by the UK Centre for Applied Positive Psychology (CAPP) to assess and debrief individuals and also holds a license to work with the Mental Toughness assessment MTQ48.

Kate is a Senior Associate of the Positivity Institute, working closely with Dr Suzy Green to develop and deliver positive psychology programs for schools, corporations and individuals. She provides positive leadership coaching in schools to support successful and strategic implementation of positive education initiatives and finds that Positive Leadership coaching helps to build resilience and boost wellbeing as well as promoting positive action. She has worked with leaders in early childhood, primary and secondary schools and has presented at the PESA Queensland Chapter conference 2018 and the 2019 PESA National Conference. Outside of the education sector Kate works with leaders in the financial and legal sectors providing coaching and workshops.

Kate’s passion for Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology flows from her career in Recruitment and Human Resource Management. Over the last twenty years Kate has worked in and consulted across a wide range of industries and different sized businesses in the public, private and not for profit sectors, working with people at all stages of their life and career development. This experience has given her a strong appreciation for the diverse challenges and opportunities that each of us encounters; and our capacity to learn and adapt positively.

Dr. Deb Perich

Dr. Deb Perich (BPE, Dip Ed, PhD, Prof Cert Pos Ed) is the Director of the InsideOut self-leadership program at Perth College. This a Kindergarten to Year 12 program incorporating positive psychology. Deb has a passion to help young people flourish and whilst Insideout was initially a program to enhance the wellbeing and leadership of young women, it quickly branched out to also positively impact the work and lives of staff and parents at Perth College.Beyond Perth College, Deb regularly attends international forums and conferences presenting work alongside an array of professionals in this field and is the Secretary of the PESA WA Chapter.

Andy SkidmoreAndy is a life long social entrepreneur and is passionate about equipping young people to grow as leaders by taking a wellbeing approach and fostering positive and meaningful relationships.

When he was 21 he founded the Not For Profit organisation Burn Bright, a social enterprise with the mission of growing the next generation of young Australians through student leadership, wellbeing programs and national camps. Over the past 5 years Burn Bright has worked with over 50,000, 12-17 year olds, from all corners of Australia through school based programs and hosting the Australian National Leadership Camp.

Burn Bright are student leadership and wellbeing specialists who work with students in a collaborative, fun and inclusive team culture. This brings about positive behavioural change, a shift in mindset and personal wellbeing, allowing students to make informed choices and decisions. Burn Bright’s programs are focused on demonstrating how students can turn theory into action by practicing and road testing skills learnt before applying them in their own lives. Burn Bright has a team of 10 staff and over 100 volunteers. Burn Bright’s programs are based on embedding and living out the concepts of positive psychology and are informed by the science of wellbeing.

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Round-Table Biographies

Photo: Perth College dancers in the SPIN Connect showcase

Joe Barnes Joe Barnes is the President of the friends of PC, a lead advocator for PC Fellas, current parent of two girls at Perth College, and an active contributor to the Positive Energy Network. Joe values community engagement and has been instrumental in planning and developing this conference to include parents and to engage the broader community.

Shani AndrewsShani Andrews is Head of Senior School at Perth College and she is passionate about student voice and empowering student agency. The Healthy Relationships Forum is the result of a student-led initiative partnering with Hale School to bring students together to explore issues pertinent to the transition into adulthood and the changing nature of relationships with others.

Katrina Harrison Katrina Harrison is a Perth College Old Girl, Old Girl Committee Member, current parent of two girls at Perth College, an active contributor to the Positive Energy Network and a Genetic Counsellor. Katrina values engagement and connection and has been instrumental in planning and developing this conference to include parents and to engage the broader community.

Helen AveryHelen Avery BA, Bed, MEd is a teacher at Perth College and has experience in Humanities and Social Sciences, Learning Engagement and pastoral leadership. She is passionate about promoting inclusive education and empowering students through a strengths based approach to learning.

Andrew Boxsell

Andrew Boxsell has been teaching for the past 18 years in a variety of coun-tries, schools and year groups. The past 11 have been spent in primary Catholic schools in WA as a Physical Education teacher. In the past three years Andrew returned to teaching health and became Loreto’s wellbeing coordinator, which was a new role. He has completed a Graduate certificate in Education (Positive Education) and is currently completing his Masters in Applied Positive Psychol-ogy. Loreto has rolled out a whole school Blossoming policy that incorporates concepts from positive psychology into the school, staffroom, classroom and community.

Kellie Heary Kellie Heary (GradCertEd Early Childhood, B.Ed) is the Dean of Early Learning and Teacher of Preparatory at Perth College. She is passionate about the importance of social emotional wellbeing and early years education. She firmly believes that if people feel good, then the rest will fall into place.

Amanda Madden

Amanda Madden is a Dean of Students at Perth College. She is a skilled, dynamic, enthusiastic, self-motivated educational leader who strives for excellence by undertaking learning and research every day. Amanda has a strong interest helping students reach their full potential and her current role as Dean of Students provides the opportunity to mentor and assist in this area. Currently completing a PhD in Education Student wellbeing, Amanda believes that Student wellbeing, pastoral care, and personal growth are inextricably linked. The classroom teacher, coach, manager, teacher on duty; all teachers are responsible for the effective care of each student.

Kathryn Netherwood

Kathryn Netherwood is the Principal of Lance Holt School in Fremantle. She has over 30 years teaching experience in both the independent and government sector in city, country and remote settings. Kathryn has a special interest in Positive Education completing a Professional Certificate of Education (Positive Education) with the Melbourne University and a Masters of Educational Leadership from the University of Western Australia, with her dissertation focused on Positive Education. Kathryn is a committee member of WA PESA (Positive Education Schools Association).

Round-Table Biographies

Luisa RossiLuisa Rossi, BPsych, MPsych (Applied Developmental), GradDipEd (Primary), ProfCertEd(PosEd) is an Educational and Developmental Psychologist with

over 20 years of experience working with children, families and teachers in schools, and more recently in private practice. Luisa’s passion

for positive psychology has taken her around the country to attend various trainings and conferences with leaders

in the field to update her knowledge and skills in the application of the principles of positive psychology

to both her personal and professional life. Luisa recently completed further university

studies in Positive Education through the University of Melbourne and is currently working collaboratively with her colleagues to implement Positive Education in the secondary school in which she is currently employed. Luisa is a co-founder of Flourishing Schools and Families, which aims to empower families and school communities with the knowledge, skills and confidence to support themselves and future generations to flourish.

Danny Parker Danny Parker is the Creative Director at Perth College, a Positive Education champion and is an award winning children’s author. Danny has published eight picture books to date, with many more in the pipeline, and is the author of the popular series Lola’s Toybox. Danny’s books explore big things – friendship, courage, loss and renewal and indeed, how to save the world! He has had the joy of leading workshops with a wide range of students and adults. Danny holds a BA Honours degree in Theatre, and a Diploma of Education.

Graham Richards Graham Richards is a current parent at Perth College, year level liaison parent and an active contributor to the Positive Energy Network. Graham enjoys actively engaging and building relationships within our school community. He has completed the Yale University Science of Wellbeing course and has been instrumental in planning and developing this conference to include parents and to engage the broader community Jessica Vuckovic

Jessica Vuckovic BA, BEd, MEd is an educator and Head of Humanities and Social Science at Perth College with a background in pastoral and academic leadership. She has a keen passion for developing student engagement and utilising a holistic approach to education

Kristine Sanders Kristine Sanders (BLM(EC), ProfCertPosEd) is an Early Childhood educator who has benefitted from a vast array of educational experience both nationally and internationally and currently teaches Year 5 at Perth College. She is passionate about nurturing the development of social, emotional and cognitive behaviours from an early age. Her view is that if you empower individuals by way of positive psychology and the development of wellbeing that they will have the resources for improved mental health and well-being throughout their lives.

Veronika Sutton Veronika Sutton has worked in her role as Associate Principal for thirteen years at Woodvale Secondary College. In 2014 she was asked to lead the Business Plan priority of Positive Education which quickly became her passion. Veronika is currently completing a PhD with Edith Cowan University evaluating the effectiveness of many initiatives and is a member of the WA Chapter of the Positive Education Schools Association.

Jo WieseJo Wiese, BA (Hons Psych), GradDipEd (School Psych), CIPP, ProfCertEd(PosEd)Jo is a registered Psychologist and trained teacher with a passion for Positive Psychology and Positive Education. Jo is a Senior Associate Trainer with the Institute of Positive Education at Geelong Grammar School, a Trainer for Mindful Meditation Australia, co-founder of Flourishing Schools and Families and facilitates workshops privately in schools on whole school wellbeing. Jo currently holds the position of Chair of School Board for an Independent Public School. Working as a school psychologist for 17 years, she has implemented many evidence-based wellbeing programs, initiated wellbeing policies and created staff-wellbeing professional learning. She has also recently presented workshops at several state and national conferences on student wellbeing, parenting and staff wellbeing.

Steve Wynhorst Steve Wynhorst is a member of the School Leadership team at Perth College. Responsibilities of the position include oversight of the school’s key priorities including InsideOut, the Imaginarium (Gifted and Talented program), the introduction of a new LMS designed to drive pedagogical innovation, evidence based learning, and the professional growth and development of teaching staff. He has a passion for cultural change in schools so they can realise the learning potential of all staff and students.

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General InformationHow to Bookwww.trybooking.com/BDGXA.

Pricing$225$200 Early Bird registration (before1 September)$99 Early Bird registration (before1 September) for current parents and future parents $99 Student concession

Dress CodeDress for the conference is smart casual.

Dietary RequirementsAll dietary requirements can be catered for if ordered in advance. Please include any special requirements you may have on your registration form. You may need to make yourself known to the catering staff during the conference if you have special dietary needs.

Airport TransfersPerth Airport is approximately 15 minutes from Perth CBD and Perth College, which is situated in Mount Lawley. There are taxis, car rentals and the Perth Airport Shuttle. For more information please visit http://www.perthairport.com.au.

WeatherIn spring (September to November) days are warm and sunny, especially from October and November with daily temperatures of around 20°C to 25°C. There is little rainfall at this time of year and Western Australia comes alive with colourful wildflowers.

Cancellation PolicyThe following outlines the cancellation policy for the Flourish 2019 Conference in Perth on Saturday 26 October 2019.

Substitution• If, after booking a place at Flourish 2019 in Perth, you are unable to attend, you are

welcome to nominate someone else to attend in your place at no additional cost.• Please advise substitutions in writing to Deb Perich ([email protected]) so a

correct nametag will be available at the registration desk.

Cancellation and refunds• Cancellation more than 30 days before the event: 100 per cent refund• Cancellation less than 30 days, but more than 14 days: 50 per cent refund• Cancellation less than 14 days: No refund• Cancellation must be in writing. The effective date is the date of receipt Trybooking

fees cannot be refunded once the transaction has been completed.

Program DisclaimerPlease note, the event program and guest speakers are subject to change. The speakers, topics and times are correct at the time of publishing, however, in the event of unforeseen circumstances, the organisers reserve the right to alter or delete items from the conference program.

Privacy ActInformation collected for this event will not be disclosed to third parties and will be used in accordance with the Perth College Privacy Policy at www.perthcollege.wa.edu.au/contact/privacy.

AdmissionConference name badges are required for access to all workshop sessions. Name badges will be supplied at the conference registration table.

Certificate of AttendanceA personalised certificate of attendance will be available upon request. These will be posted after the conference.

Mobile PhonesAs a courtesy to speakers and fellow attendees, please switch your mobile phone to silent while attending the presentations.

PhotographyAny photography, filming, taping, recording or reproduction in any medium including via the use of tripod-based equipment of any of the programs presented at the conference without the express written permission of Perth College or The Positivity Institute is strictly prohibited.

Press/Media CentreArrangements for interviews and inquiries concerning news releases and news conference should be directed to the Perth College Communications Manager, Lauren Underhill, via [email protected] or (08) 9471 2125.

RegistrationConference registration will take place in the Judith Cottier Theatre Foyer.

Smoking PolicySmoking is prohibited anywhere on the grounds at Perth College.

Speaker AssistanceConference presenters are required to bring their own laptop.

EnquiriesPlease direct any registration enquires to Deb Perich via [email protected].

flourish 2019 - perth college · the positivity institute helen aguiar principal of perth college...

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