A Framework For Wellbeing

In August 2019, Dulwich College (Singapore) introduced the Compassionate Systems Framework initiative to support the wellbeing of students and staff. With COVID just around the corner, it was a timely move!

- Patricea Chow

An education reform project led by researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston, the framework aims to transform wellbeing support for learners and teachers alike. . Deputy Head of College JACOB MARTIN and Assistant Head of Junior School CHARLOTTE RUDDY share how it works at Dulwich.

What's the connection between a student's wellbeing and their learning?

Two prerequisites for good learning are an environment of safety and a strong sense of wellbeing. Without these, learning won't take place effectively, despite the quality of a teacher's preparation and resources, or the importance of the lesson topic.

Humans don't learn in the way a machine or computer does – learning is an emotional process where the way a student “shows up determines whether they can learn well or not.

The pandemic has, of course, made the issue of student and staff wellbeing even more important.

How is the framework used at the school?

It mainly began in our Year 5 team and now includes our infant and kindergarten students. It's also present in the wellbeing lessons and some individual subjects in the Senior School.