IPEN launches in Greece

IPEN is thrilled to announce the launch of IPEN Greece, the latest regional hub in the global Positive Education movement.

Global Chair of IPEN, Mrs Anne Johnstone, met with more than twenty delegates from academic institutions, schools, and business and psychology sectors at the first IPEN conference in Greece hosted by Mrs Angele Papantoniou, founder of the Human Flourishing Movement (HFM), and her team in Athens. As well as presenting the science underpinning the benefits of Positive Education, Anne led a seminar and appreciative inquiry workshop, sharing a range of valuable evidence-based resources and strategies that can support schools to embark on their own Positive Education journey.

‘It is so inspiring to witness the high level of commitment and enthusiasm for the launch of IPEN in Greece,’ says Anne, who is also Principal of Ravenswood School for Girls in Sydney Australia, the first school in NSW Australia to introduce a Visible Wellbeing and Positive Education Program.

‘Anne Johnstone’s presentation played a pivotal role in the success of launching IPEN Greece and generating real interest, engagement, and dedication,’ says Angele. ‘We are truly honoured and excited to work so closely with IPEN to integrate Positive Education practices in the Greek educational system and support individuals to thrive, emotionally, socially and academically.’

Mr George Kokolas, a Positive Educator for HFM, states, ‘IPEN is the cornerstone of Positive Education on a global scale and IPEN Greece aims to support Greek educators in enhancing wellbeing and fostering a love of learning in their classrooms. I had the pleasure of attending the recent workshop and seminar in Athens, where Anne’s leadership on Positive Education as Global Chair of IPEN and Principal of Ravenswood truly stood out. She provided a clear context for why Positive Education is important worldwide, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment that encouraged open dialogue among participants. Anne’s passion for the subject inspired us all, and her engaging activities allowed us to apply these valuable concepts in practical ways.’

Greece is the latest regional hub in the founding regions of Australia, Latin America, MENA, Southeast Asia, UK Europe and USA, further expanding the growing community of education professionals around the world who are committed to developing a deeper understanding of the theory and practice of positive education.  

‘It was an honour to share the science of wellbeing and evidence-based benefits of positive education for young people,’ says Anne. ‘It was also exciting to share how the research translates into practice in schools, along with the evidence-based resources and strategies that have already been successfully implemented at Ravenswood. IPEN’s goal is to support educational leaders across the globe to use available resources to develop programs that suit their local wellbeing needs in education, and we are thrilled to see the high level of interest and passion for advancing Positive Education in Greece.’