Reason Behind Shipley’s Focus on Flourishing

As we learned more about what has been historically referred to as “Positive Education”, it became clear that Shipley has always been committed to the philosophy underlying Positive Education. However, there are now multiple scientific frameworks as well as evidence-based educational practices and tools to better strengthen the excellent programs and initiatives we already have in place. Using a variety of models for human flourishing and psychological well-being, Shipley has identified eight components that are core to a life well-lived, which we call the Shipley Framework for Flourishing.
  • Safety: Physical & Psychological
  • Vitality & Health: Acknowledging the fundamental fact of the mind-body connection and the inescapable reality that sleep, nutrition, movement, and breath all serve as keys to unlocking our best selves both physically and mentally.
  • Belonging & Connection: A sense that we can show up as our true, authentic selves and that others can do the same while still co-existing in ways that create win-win outcomes for all. 
  • Emotional Awareness & Agility: An understanding of and comfort with the range of emotional signals (both pleasant and unpleasant) that inform us and help us grow into our best selves. 
  • Character: The awareness, appreciation, and development of strengths of personality that allow us to live virtuous lives and positively impact the people and projects we are a part of. 
  • Accomplishment: The completion of meaningful goals and the development of competencies that provide a sense of efficacy, mastery, and satisfaction while equipping us to navigate an increasingly complex world. 
  • Meaning and Purpose: A connection to things (e.g. groups, communities, or causes) that allow us to transcend our own self-interest and make a contribution.
  • Deep Engagement: Experiences of flow, states of deep immersion that allow us to access our highest potentials and experience deep satisfaction as a result. 
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The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.