The Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning (SEAL) strategy

Teachers are always in search of magic ways of teaching. We watch new webinars, implement modern techniques. Emotional state is one of the foundation stones of sufficient teaching. Let’s try to consider “the social and emotional aspects of learning” on English lessons.

SEAL strategy is an approach to developing the corresponding skills that enable good behaviour and attendance, effective learning, the efficiency of the workforce and the emotional well-being of both students and the staff.

The social and emotional aspects of learning are 

• self-awareness; 
• empathy;
• motivation; 
• managing feelings; 
• social skills.

There are seven themes to be covered within a school year:

• New beginnings
• Getting on and falling out
• Say “no” to bullying
• Going for goals
• Good to be me
• Relationships
• Changes

These skills have proved to enhance learning and given benefits to students and school staff. This strategy provides a curriculum that develops these skills according to certain guidelines. However, the schools need to take into account the social and emotional needs of all the students, as a result, there are some extra materials to be used outside of classwork and with small groups. This strategy includes the use of individual support for children who desperately need this. Usually, this kind of kids may need extra support of psychologists, social services, etc.

SEAL is taught explicitly to develop children’s personal and social skills, however, it should be reinforced frequently to make sure kids apply the skills in their life. There are materials that train staff on how to model these skills and make these skills penetrate in daily school life and to promote these skills across the curriculum. In addition, there are resources parents can use at home with their children.

SEAL in primary and secondary schools

The model of using SEAL is to nurture the learning outcome through an explicit curriculum, using the skills across the school day. There are materials provided for each year group, they are divided into 6 school themes in primary and 3 themes in secondary schools. The materials include an overview for each theme, a staff training booklet, family activities, small group work; posters, photos, protocols.

Why is this strategy beneficial?

It impacts positively on:

• Behaviour and attendance
• Academic success
• Health 
• Mental health 
• Reductions in violence and bullying
• Staff retention 

How to successfully implement SEAL at school?

1. Inform staff well about the strategy
2. Be involved yourself
3. The whole school should participate, not only separate classes or students, teachers
4. Everyone understands what SEAL is, the benefits of SEAL, how it works and why the school uses this strategy
5. Develop staff in SEAL
6. Involve parents