The Power of Social-Emotional Learning: Insights from Benjamin Davies

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is not just an educational buzzword. It’s a transformative framework that can change how schools approach learning, relationships, and collaboration. Benjamin Davies, Head of Colina Learning Center, is a shining example of how SEL can be embedded into a school’s framework to create meaningful change. During our conversation with Benjamin Davies, Head of Colina Learning Center, he shared his journey from St. Andrews in Buenos Aires to Colina, and how SEL has shaped his educational philosophy.

At St. Andrews, Benjamin championed SEL initiatives that significantly shifted school culture. Weekly student circles gave children a space to express their thoughts and emotions, fostering an environment of trust and mutual respect. One key result? A noticeable transformation in the way students interacted - pranks and mischief were replaced with moments of gratitude and a stronger sense of community.

But SEL wasn’t just about emotional expression. It was also about equipping students with tools to collaborate effectively. Benjamin introduced the Egg Project, a pioneering initiative that used an algorithm to create optimal group dynamics. Students were encouraged to seek help from peers before turning to teachers, building problem-solving skills and teamwork. The results were astounding: students using this method achieved higher academic performance and developed stronger collaborative abilities. However, implementing such initiatives required bold leadership and trust in both teachers and students.

At Colina Learning Center, Benjamin continues to lead with SEL at the forefront. His approach includes empowering teachers through team coaching, fostering authentic relationships, and creating supportive structures like the “Stepping In” ritual - a Monday morning activity where teachers engage in their own SEL practices. This focus on shared humanity and community building is central to his leadership style.

Benjamin also highlights the critical role of engaging families in the school’s vision. At Colina, parents participate in Learning Partnership Meetings and Transform Events, where they connect with the school’s mission and their children’s learning journey. These moments ensure alignment across the community, from teachers to families, creating a shared purpose.

One of the most compelling aspects of Benjamin’s philosophy is his call for schools to embrace a clear vision and integrate every part of the educational experience - curriculum, teaching methods, assessments, and community engagement—around that vision.  

Actionable Steps to Implement SEL in Your School

Cultivate a Safe and Inclusive Classroom Culture

Model and Encourage Emotional Regulation

Teach and Practice Active Listening

Start the Day with a Check-In

Create Opportunities for Collaboration

Nurture a Culture of Kindness

Integrate SEL into Academics

SEL should not be an isolated lesson but woven into daily academic instruction. Research supports integrating SEL into subjects like language arts, where students analyze characters' emotions, or science, where they collaborate on experiments (Taylor et al., 2017). Assignments that encourage self-reflection, conflict resolution, and teamwork build both cognitive and emotional skills. For example, journaling exercises on personal growth or historical discussions on ethical decision-making make SEL a natural part of learning.

But what challenges do school leaders face when implementing SEL? How can teachers be empowered to lead with empathy? And what does it take to build a school culture where students thrive emotionally, socially, and academically?

Watch Benjamin Davies’ Expert Talk to discover the answers and learn actionable strategies to bring SEL into your school. This is your chance to explore innovative practices that not only improve academic outcomes but also nurture the emotional well-being of every member of the school community.