Target areas

Formal, regular and coordinated teaching of SEL curriculum

Social and emotional competencies need to be taught in schools as an integrated part of the regular curriculum. The teaching of social and emotional learning (SEL) needs to be coordinated and supported throughout the school across all year levels. It is important to provide children with developmentally appropriate opportunities to keep building their learning of key SEL competencies over the duration of primary schooling. Opportunities for students to practise and generalise SEL skills in the classroom, school and wider community are also crucial to implementing effective SEL.

Two target areas have been identified for Component 2: Social and emotional learning (SEL) for students, each with specific objectives. These are:

Target areas KidsMatter objectives
  1. Effective social and emotional learning curriculum taught to all students
  1. Curriculum is taught that: 
    • covers the five core social and emotional competencies
    • has research evidence of effectiveness (or at least an identified theoretical framework)
  2. Curriculum is taught:
    • formally (structured sessions that adhere to the program manual)
    • regularly
    • in a coordinated and supported way throughout the school 
  3. Teachers have the knowledge, skills and commitment to effectively deliver SEL curriculum
  1. Opportunities for students to practise and generalise SEL skills
  1. Opportunities are regularly provided for students to generalise their SEL skills in the classroom, school and wider community