What is the SEW-Arts Framework?
The SEW-Arts Framework is a flexible strengths-based tool developed through conversations with young people, artists, and arts organisations. It helps embed social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) into creative programs for both participants and staff.
Use it to:
- Promote key wellbeing messages
- Plan creative activities that support SEWB
- Reflect on and improve your practice
- Support whole-organisation change
Explore the Framework visually
Read more about our research
The Framework has three parts
1. The Wellbeing Factors
Grouped into four key areas:
- Tuning In
- Feeling
- Discovering
- Connecting
Each Wellbeing Factor includes:
- A description and purpose
- Key messages to communicate
- Questions for young people
- Reflection prompts for teaching artists
- Activity ideas
2. Wellbeing Pedagogies
Teaching strategies designed to enhance SEWB. Each includes:
- A short summary
- Tips for how to apply it in practice
3. Map the Gap: Whole organisation wellbeing
A planning and reflection tool for arts organisations.
Use it to:
- Assess current organisational SEWB strengths and gaps
- Set goals and track progress
- Create supportive environments for all
How to use the Framework
New to SEW-Arts? Start with our Induction Pack or explore our Train-the-Trainer Kit for leading sessions with your team.
For teaching artists
Step 1: Identify your focus
- Complete the Teaching Artist Survey to discover your strengths and areas to grow.
- Discuss your results with TAs in your organisation (if applicable).
Step 2: Deepen your understanding
- Explore your chosen Wellbeing Factors through [Module 1 link to eLearning Modules or the [Wellbeing Factor Cards link to Wellbeing Factor Cards PDF].
Step 3: Plan your sessions
- Use the key messages and [activity ideas – link to wellbeing factors in action PDF] to intentionally embed SEWB into your sessions.
Step 4: Reflect on your pedagogy
- Check your approach against the [Pedagogy Cards link to Pedagogy Cards PDF] or [Module 2 link to eLearning Modules].
Step 5: Evaluate impact
- Plan measurement of how well you have empowered young people to develop their wellbeing through the Wellbeing Factors [Measuring Imapct link to webpage].
- Evaluate your teaching practice to identify how wellbeing factors were woven into your arts sessions. Download the Observation and Reflection Journal (PDF).
Step 6: Revisit and Refine
- Go back to Step 1 as you embed wellbeing into your practice.
For arts administrators
Step 1: Use the Map the Gap Tool
- Complete it via Module 3 of the eLearning Modules or download the Map the Gap Tool (PDF).
Step 2: Set wellbeing goals
- Choose 1–2 areas of focus and plan small, achievable actions to achieve outcomes.
Step 3: Meet regularly
- Discuss progress with your team and support each other.
Step 4: Reassess
- Update your goals using the Map the Gap tool as needed.