The Open Session supports restorative practices, healing, and practical problem-solving - and as such is a meaningful and authentic way to activate SEL for adolescents. The Open Session is already a major part of advisory programs in schools around the world.
In The Open Session, classmates respond to student-generated issues through an intentional, supportive exchange of listening and ideas. This opportunity, when held consistently within a Middle and Upper School community, allows students to offer their personal wisdom, support, or clarification to guide their peers to a healthy resolution to everyday problems. Students and educators gain most from Open Session when it is offered within a thriving, SEL-rooted Advisory Program.
Already Running Open Session?
Get in touch (connect@ifsel.net) to schedule a refresher training.
Read more about The Open Session on pages 150-152, Overloaded and Underprepared
Step 1:
Meet online with a member of the IFSEL team to review the process and requirements for The Open Session training. Successful implementation of The Open Session in schools requires a certain level of readiness - in terms of both student and teacher SEL skills and comfort.
Step 2:
The school identifies a member of their team who will be the school’s ‘Open Session Coordinator’. This role of the ‘Open Session Coordinator’ involves attending further training from IFSEL, overseeing the implementation of The Open Session after the training, and being a point person for communication and troubleshooting with IFSEL.
Step 3:
3-Hour Open Session Facilitator training, in-person at your school, led by a member of the IFSEL Team. During this training teachers learn the what, why, and how of facilitating The Open Session before experiencing The Open Session as a group. The training concludes with recommendations for implementation and sustaining practice over time. A comprehensive Open Session Guide accompanies this training.
Step 4:
Schedule 90-minute Online Refresher Training 3-6 months after The Open Session implementation.
This experiential two-day workshop is designed to upskill your practice and amplify your impact. Together, we’ll unpack the role of the advisor, tackle common challenges, and build a toolkit that promotes student belonging, connection, and success.
More InfoPractical workshop is a great place to begin or deepen SEL in your classroom and school.
More InfoThis program supports leaders and educators around the world to build and sustain an inclusive, equitable, SEL-rooted school community. This online program is experiential, inspiring, and renewing - providing a balance of high impact practical tools and approaches, alongside space for collaboration and reflection.
More InfoThis program supports leaders and educators around the world to build and sustain an inclusive, equitable, SEL-rooted school community. This online program is experiential, inspiring, and renewing - providing a balance of high impact practical tools and approaches, alongside space for collaboration and reflection.
More Info