Bell Primary has embarked on a learning journey towards implementing the Berry Street Educational Model (BSEM) Strategies in our daily practice. BSEM is an education initiative based on proven positive education, trauma-informed and wellbeing practices that enable students’ academic and personal growth. The model is unique because it educates schools and their leaders to reinforce and sustain cognitive and behavioural change, thereby re-engaging young people in learning and progressing their academic achievement. Some of the whole-school strategies that have been implemented are Brain Breaks, Morning Circles and Ready to Learn Scales. 

Brain breaks are mental breaks designed to help students stay focused and attentive. The brain breaks get students moving to carry blood and oxygen to the brain. The breaks can either energize or relax as required. 

Morning circles are a daily routine that includes rhythmic activities, healthy touch, positive affirmations, intention setting and gratitude reflections.

Ready to Learn Scales are a standard system used by students in classrooms to identify difficult emotions or stress, both collectively and individually. Students have been involved in the design of large pictorial displays and have access to self-regulation tools.

More information on the Berry Street Education Model can be found here