This case study:
- Outlines how Xavier College strategically integrated Skodel to transition from initial COVID-19 responses to a refined focus on wellbeing for learning.
- Details the specific methods Xavier College uses to measure and enhance students’ readiness to learn.
- Provides direct testimonials of school leaders and students themselves, evidencing the effectiveness of this approach.
How Xavier College has pioneered wellbeing for learning
Initially adopting Skodel during the COVID-19 pandemic for safety, Xavier College’s application of the Skodel tool has matured into a ‘wellbeing for learning’ approach. This approach is focused on understanding students’ preparedness/motivation for learning, and the factors that influence these elements, such as classroom dynamics, content engagement, and personal pressures they place on themselves.
Overview of the approach
Xavier implemented the following plan of action to measure and enhance students’ readiness to learn.
| Phase | Description | Outcome |
| Week 2 readiness check | 1 minute survey to assess students’ preparedness, motivation, and learning concerns at the term’s start. | Provides initial data to tailor support. |
| Action planning | Students receive tailored steps to develop their personal action plan for learning and wellbeing. | Empowers students with self-management tools. |
| Tutor engagement | Tutors utilise survey results to facilitate discussions on key areas such as improving study routines and focus strategies. | Strengthens teacher student relations through personalised support. |
| Leadership review | Administrators analyse trends to adapt teaching strategies and learning environments. | Promotes adaptive changes for better learning outcomes. |
| Term Reflection | Students and staff reflect on the term’s progress to inform improvements for the next term. | Creates a feedback loop for continuous enhancement. |
“Understanding preparedness and motivation levels through Skodel’s insights allows us to directly tailor our educational approaches, making them significantly more effective.” – Michael Pate, Principal.
Early indicators of wellbeing challenges
At Xavier College, early indicators such as drops in motivation, difficulties in maintaining focus, or changes in academic engagement are seen as signs of potential wellbeing challenges. These indicators are understood as part of a spiral where a decline in one aspect like motivation can lead to setbacks in others, such as increased anxiety for falling behind academically, which can then impact sleep.
Recognising these early signs allows the school to adopt a proactive approach, focusing on areas within its control and where teachers are equipped to support:
- Proactive support
By identifying and addressing these early indicators, the school can intervene before challenges spiral.
- Focus on manageable factors
The school concentrates its efforts on influencing factors like classroom environment, teaching methods, and student engagement, which are directly manageable and impactful.
- Ensure teachers are comfortable with the data
As teachers are not trained psychologists, it is important the wellbeing insights fall within their areas of expertise, such as forming effective study routines and managing exam stress.
Note: illustrative purposes of graphs Xavier College uses, not actual data
Impact and testimonials
Michael Pate (Principal):
“The focus on wellbeing for learning through Skodel has reshaped how we view educational success. By directly measuring preparedness and motivation, we can adapt our strategies to meet the real needs of our students. The data has shown us that, while things are going well, certain year groups are reporting a lack of interest in what they are learning. Knowing this, we can make changes to how we present the content and then track how this impacts that number.”
Brent Varga (Skodel lead at Xavier):
“It’s impactful to see nearly 200 students actively engaged in creating personalised plans. Facilitating student agency in this way is essential, and Skodel makes this possible.”
Student:
“Using Skodel feels more like having a conversation than completing a survey. It’s short and simple. The tips are clear and supportive, empowering me to take active steps in my learning and wellbeing.”
Skodel’s ready to learn check and support in action
Summary
This case study illustrates a powerful shift towards a data-informed understanding of student wellbeing as a foundational component of learning success. By focusing on preparedness and motivation, and addressing early indicators of wellbeing challenges, Xavier College not only enhances academic performance but also fosters a supportive community where students thrive.
