High quality learning delivered

Twenty schools and pre-schools in Renfrewshire have now received global recognition by focusing on children’s social and emotional learning (SEL).

The latest is Dargavel Early Learning and Childcare Centre, in Bishopton, which was awarded SEL Worldwide Model School status, which has come about after they successfully integrated the PATHS Programme for Schools (UK Version) within everyday life.

The SEL award is presented by children’s charity Barnardo’s in recognition of outstanding commitment to fostering emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills and overall well-being amongst school children.

Delivery of the programme is supported by specialist coaches from Barnardo’s. Activities are designed to help children’s development in learning to regulate their emotions, boost self-esteem, increase their emotional awareness and teach them problem-solving skills, including within relationships and friendships, improving the mental health of nursery and primary school pupils.

There are now 14 schools and six pre-school settings in Renfrewshire that have achieved model school recognition. Staff and pupils from the school were presented with their award by a programme co-ordinator from Barnardo’s, who has been working closely with schools to support staff to embed the programme into everyday learning.

Mairead Ewart, programme manager at Barnardo’s, said: “We are extremely proud of the way these settings have taken the PATHS programme and made it part of the fabric of their schools. We’re delighted to work with SEL worldwide to recognise this achievement. To be an SEL worldwide model school using the PATHS pogramme requires more than to have teachers doing a high-quality job of teaching the lessons in their classrooms.

“These teachers and pupils have worked to create a special dynamic within the school that has included using SEL practices throughout the school, creating a school culture in which staff and pupils feel valued and nurtured, creating positive expectations that pupils and staff will utilise SEL skills throughout the school, with peers and adults, and communicating with parents and supporting the ability to use SEL skills at home.”

Jackie Rankin, head of centre at Dargavel ELCC, said: “Dargavel ELCC has achieved the SEL worldwide award … and we couldn’t be prouder! Renfrewshire Council supported the development of the PATHS Programme and as a staff team positive interactions and reflective thinking are strongly embedded in our nursery ethos and values.

“Caroline and Hannah, two of our practitioners, with the support of management and Kristy, our PATHS co-ordinator when needed, have led the development of the programme over the past three years.

“The children, families and staff team at Dargavel ELCC are extremely grateful for all the hard work that has gone into gaining this award. Our endeavours, and the wonderful PATHS characters, have supported the children to develop socially and emotionally, increasing skills in responsibility, resilience, self-esteem and problem-solving.”