#ISSS2019 Corvallis

“Systems leaders achieve seemingly impossible changes by tapping the collective intelligence, spirit and energy of their people.” Peter Senge

In spite of increased awareness and concerted efforts to promote wellbeing and prevent mental illness, the mental health crisis for our young people continues to escalate. The reality is that in spite of a growing body of evidence of the short-term impact of wellbeing in education efforts, we are facing some daunting systemic challenges. Continuing to do what we are currently doing but doing it harder or smarter is not likely to produce very different outcomes. Real change starts with recognizing that we are a part of the systems we seek to change…..and the knowledge and skills to work within this to create systemic change.

This workshop draws on the cutting-edge research and practice coming out of the University of Melbourne’s Systems Informed Positive Psychology team. The workshop will guide participants through a process using systems and design thinking fused with positive psychology. It is designed to equip participants with tools to take a systems approach to creating conditions for your community to thrive. This includes strategies to map the larger system in which you are trying to effect change; build generative and collaborative conversations; and move from reactive problem solving to co-creating the future. Trialled with 48 Principals and schools across Victoria, Australia, this unique approach has demonstrated sustainable and energising growth. If you are seeking to kick start real systems change, or to deepen your efforts to embed wellbeing education within the fabric of your community, then please join us to develop your capacity for systems leadership. This experiential workshop will challenge your thinking about how we currently educate, provide effective tools that you can utilise in your own practice, and share key insights from schools that are co-evolving towards thriving using this approach.