The VIA Strengths Classification was developed by Martin Seligman and Chris Peterson to identify and describe strengths in people. In developing the strengths, all major religions and philosophical traditions were examined. It was found that the same six virtues were shared over thousands of years in practically all cultures.

Why do I need to know my Character Strengths?

Knowing your character strengths isn’t just interesting information. When skillfully applied, character strengths can actually have a significant positive impact on your life. Research shows that using your character strengths can help you:

-Buffer against, manage and overcome problems
-Improve your relationships
-Enhance health and overall well-being

Source: http://www.viacharacter.org/www/Character-Strengths

Adults can find their character strengths by doing the free survey which can be found at:

http://www.viacharacter.org/www/Character-Strengths-Survey

At Barwon Heads Primary School we teach our students Social and Emotional Learning skills by focussing on one of the Character Strengths each week. We teach using mentor texts, YouTube video clips and a range of other activities. We have developed our own Character Strength cards/posters and Character Strength awards are given at the culmination of each week to celebrate students who have demonstrated the character strength of the week. Students identify their own Character Strengths and spot Character strengths in others and the language of Character Strengths has become embedded in our culture at school.

BHPS Character Strength Cards A5-2ducsim

   

  

©Jon Phillips

 

What is your signature Character Strength?

Which Character Strength would you like to show/use more often?