Sal Valentino is an experienced educator and visionary leader with an unwavering dedication to nurturing the well-being and potential of individuals. With a Diploma of teaching, Bachelor of Education and Master of Education (Wellbeing), Sal has amassed over 3 decades of enriching experience in the education sector. Throughout his career, Sal has held diverse leadership roles, including Head of Year, Head of House and most recently Head of Wellbeing & Personal Development. In these capacities, he has been entrusted with overseeing pastoral care and leading the design, development and delivery of comprehensive wellbeing education programs to students, parents, teaching and non-teaching staff.
A passionate advocate for Positive Education, Sal has dedicated himself to promoting and implementing strength-based approaches aimed at fostering resilience and maximising individual potential. His expertise in this field has led him to present at various conferences hosted by the Positive Education Schools Association (PESA), where he shares insights and best practices with fellow educators. As a member of the PESA Victorian Team Chapter, Sal remains at the forefront of the Positive Education movement, championing the belief that every individual possesses innate potential and a natural inclination to flourish. He firmly believes that education holds the key to unlocking this potential and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
Beyond his contributions to education and wellbeing, Sal is a Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the mental health and resilience of young people. Additionally, he is a level 2 Tennis Australia coach, finding joy in both playing and coaching the sport in his spare time. Lastly, he is now a Licensed Trainer for The Resilience Doughnut and he is keen to add the model to his tool kit, to build the resilience of children, adolescents and adults, especially across the Victoria region. Currently serving as Director of Aspire Wellbeing Education, Sal and his team are dedicated to delivering evidence-based preventive and intervention-based wellbeing education. Through his leadership and vision, Sal continues to inspire others to live their best lives, equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive in an ever-changing world.