Research Summary: Practical principles for school-based SEL implementation: perspectives from Australian education professionals

A qualitative study explored the factors influencing the implementation of social and emotional learning (SEL) programs in Australian primary schools, from the perspective of school-based professionals. The research identified principles for practical SEL implementation, emphasizing that successful integration depends significantly on the educators and support staff facilitating these programs. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used for initial data coding, followed by an inductive analysis of program-design needs.

Why it matters

This research provides insights into the operational challenges and success factors for educational programs aimed at student welfare. Understanding these implementation principles is crucial for developing sustainable strategies that effectively integrate critical social and emotional competencies into institutional frameworks, thus impacting long-term societal development and workforce readiness.

Key insights

• SEL programs are increasingly adopted in schools to enhance student mental health and wellbeing.
• Successful SEL implementation is highly dependent on the teachers and school-based professionals involved in delivery.
• The study gathered perspectives from teachers, school leaders, guidance counsellors, and community support professionals.
• Data collection involved 16 participants through individual and small-group interviews.
• The research utilized the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) for deductive coding and inductive analysis for program design needs.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1943835