Using appreciative inquiry to foster positive sports leadership

Abstract

Students not only learn about well-being concepts in positive education in specific timetabled classes but also through extra-curricular activities and pastoral structures. Sport, for example, is one of the most under investigated avenues for the integration of well-being systematically in education. When considering the future direction of well-being, I argue that it is in the coaching of sport and creating a whole school strategy where it is possible to integrate strength-based approaches. It is clear that the creation of a school, which embraces positive education, must also have the students themselves as leaders in creating change. A collective approach to improving well-being is necessary, and the student body is a powerful voice in engaging with and leading their classmates. While student leaders in both pastoral and prefect positions have some opportunities to engage as a collective and develop their leadership capabilities; sports leaders require a forum to develop their leadership potential.