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Aussie Optimism
Aussie Optimism is a comprehensive, evidence-based wellbeing and resilience program designed for Australian schools serving students from Year 1 to Year 10. It adopts a whole-school approach, integrating seamlessly with both Western Australia (WA) and national curricula to foster positive mental health, emotional intelligence, and optimism among students. The program is structured to be easily trainable for teachers, ensuring effective implementation and sustainability within the school environment.
The Aussie Optimism Program is an evidence-based, comprehensive mental health initiative designed to equip students with life skills that promote resilience, positive thinking, and social-emotional competence. Aligned with the Australian National Curriculum, this program supports students’ mental health development at various year levels, from early primary to high school.
Aussie Optimism Programs
Aussie Optimism comprises six classroom-based programs, each developmentally appropriate for the different year levels.
Aussie Optimism is based on psychological and educational research into the risk and protective factors associated with psychological difficulties, and anxiety and depression in particular.
The program focuses on developing competencies, resilience and practical skills, and was designed to be run by the teacher in the classroom with all children. The ten modules are ideally run once a week for the whole term.
Teachers complete workshops before implementing the program in class. There are currently a number of different workshops available, and all workshops are designed to enable teachers and school staff to implement the Aussie Optimism programs effectively and with confidence.
The workshops provide background information on mental health and mental health promotion, as well as information about program content and implementation. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to practice activities from the program, so you feel ready to use them in class.
Selecting a Program
Firstly, identify the program that is developmentally appropriate for your students. For example, if your students are in year 4, the Positive Thinking Skills Program is most appropriate.
Secondly, consider the needs of your students. If you are teaching years 7 or 8 and have noticed that your students are making a lot of negative comments about themselves, start with Optimistic Thinking Skills. If social skills development is in greater need, start with Social Life Skills.
About
Phillippa Henderson
Founder & Principal Master MHFA Instructor
As the Founder I wear multiple hats, Trainer, Leader and Speaker. I was drawn to mental health education due to its profound effects on workplaces, communities, and friend’s lives. Having experienced my own struggles, and lossing friends to suicide I educate differently. From the heart. My magic lies in infusing workplaces with vibrant energy, drive, profound passion, while helping create a clear sense of purpose. The intention is to create an atmosphere that focuses on mental wellness.
Sonya Douglas - DietWise Director
Phillippa was highly engaging
and her lived experience brought authenticity and passion to the delivery of this content. She was open, trauma-informed and treated all participants with respect and was deeply appreciative of lived experiences and professional expertise brought to the sessions. The qualities of a true professional."
Morgan James, NY
It was very interesting to learn more about mental health. I feel as though this increased knowledge will not only help at work but at home as well. I am very interested in the youth mental health to assist me with my children as they grow. Thank you for educating me Phillipa
Claire
My Youth Mental Health First Aid course with Phillippa was excellent. Phillippa is passionate, engaging and held my attention for the two days. She is generous and warm, and I left feeling much more confident to help support others in a mental health crisis. Thank you Phillippa!
