22TRA088 SNA Series - Well-Being, Self-Care and Resilience for SNAs: Approaches from Positive Psychology (P) (PP) (SNAs)

DATE:         Wednesdays - 12 January, 19 January, 26 January and 2 February 2022
TIME:          7.30pm to 8.30pm
VENUE:      Online Via Zoom 

‘Self- care is not selfish, you cannot pour from an empty cup.’  Eleanor Brownn

The role of SNA is both rewarding and challenging, and it is vital to prioritise self-care and well-being on a daily basis in order to face these unique challenges. This interactive 4-part course will offer SNAs the opportunity to reflect on their own well-being and resilience, to share their experiences and to support each other, whilst exploring practical ideas for nurturing well-being and resilience from the field of Positive Psychology, which is the science of well-being. Each session will explore a specific topic and will offer practical suggestions for incorporating it into our daily lives, both inside and outside the classroom. Many of the ideas can also be adapted for use with students also, in order to build their well-being too.

Session 1: Introduction to Well-Being - Wednesday, 12 January 7:30 – 8:30pm

• Well-Being -What and Why?
• Overview of Positive Psychology -the Science of Well-Being
• Specific challenges of the SNA role – research & shared experiences
• What helps? Research & shared experiences
• Ideas for practical use on a personal level

Session 2: Positive Emotions and Emotional Regulation - Wednesday, 19 January 7:30 – 8:30pm

• Review and Session 1 follow-up
• What is emotional regulation and why is it so important for well-being?
• Emotional Regulation techniques
• Emotional Regulation as an SNA – shared experiences
• The Importance of Positive Emotions to emotional regulation & well-being
• Ideas for practical use on a personal level

Session 3: Resilience - Wednesday, 26 January 7:30 – 8:30pm

• Review and Session 2 follow-up
• Resilience – What and Why?
• Overview of Resilience Skills
• Resilience as an SNA – shared experiences
• Ideas for practical use on a personal level

Session 4: Whole-School Approach - Wednesday, 2 February 7:30 – 8:30pm

• Review and Session 3 follow-up
• Importance of a Whole School Approach
• Practical suggestions for staff well-being
• Ideas for practical use on a personal level
• Final reflections and conclusion

Tutor: Fiona Forman, M. Sc. Applied Positive Psychology

Fiona is a former primary teacher and is co-author of the Weaving Well-Being Programme. Having worked in schools for many years, both as a class teacher and in special needs, she is passionate about placing the well-being of the school community at the heart of school life.