The Theoretical Foundation: Glasser's 5 Basic Needs
The WELL³ approach is grounded in William Glasser’s Choice Theory, which posits that all human behaviour is driven by an attempt to satisfy five genetically encoded Basic Needs.
1. Survival
The need for being and feeling physically and emotionally safe.
Connection: A foundation for emotional and psychological health.
2. Love and Belonging
The need for social relationships, connection,
and acceptance.
Connection: Crucial for mental health and positive social states.
3. Power
The need for recognition, influence
and feeling competent.
Connection: Contributes to self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment/autonomy.
4. Freedom
The need for autonomy,
choice, and a self-directed life.
Connection: Significantly contributes to life satisfaction and personal values.
4. Fun
The need for pleasure, discovery and growth.
Connection: Key for maintaining psychological wellbeing and preventing boredom/disconnection.
The Annual Wellbeing Cycle
The Whole-School Approach requires the involvement of all stakeholders (leaders, teachers, students, parents). The process is annual and cyclical, designed for continuous improvement.
1. Start
Form your wellbeing team, explore the tools, and prepare your school for the journey ahead.
2. Evaluate
Use the Wellbeing Sensor to gather confidential feedback from students, teachers, and school leaders.
3. Set Goals
Analyse your results, identify priorities, and define shared wellbeing goals for the school year.
4. Select Measures
Choose practical methods and exercises from the Wellbeing Treasury to address your goals.
5. Act & Celebrate
Implement your action plan, track progress in the logbook, and celebrate what you achieve.
6. Wrap-up
Use the Sensor again to evaluate the impact and refine the approach for the next year.
Quality & Safety Notes
The method is intrinsically linked to preventing bullying and violence, and ensures inclusion by focusing on individual and group-specific needs.