Student happiness and wellbeing is an integral aspect of learning, individual development, and participation. Successful learning is, to a large extent, dependent on the quality of the learning environment, and it is the human relationships in the school that most impact the quality of this environment.

The student happiness and wellbeing initiatives at IHS aim to achieve the school's vision of ‘creating proactive global citizens’ through comprehensive and integrated strategies that support the cognitive, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual wellbeing of students.

The school is committed to providing a safe, secure, and inclusive learning environment for all students. We implemented the following strategies that promote and support student well-being.

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Heartfulness Practice

We have joined hands with the ‘Heartfulness Foundation’ to practically support the overall wellbeing of students, teachers, and parents. Heartfulness is all about living a hearty, wholesome life. It is a simple heart-based meditation technique where we tune in to the heart and learn to be centered on our Highest Self.

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Project Evexia (Greek for Wellbeing)

The IHS group of schools has developed its own, unique wellness programme – Project Evexia. The programme is truly by, for, and of the students. Its motto is the commitment that “…we’ll keep each other well”. Project Evexia is led by the ‘Wellbeing Champions’ of the student councils of grades 5 to 12 and supported by the teachers. Every division has its own “Wellness Managers” to take care of the smallest unit – the classroom.

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Project One

The kindness project has been launched for the students, teachers, and parents of the IHS group of schools. Every kindness project starts with ‘doing’. Students are engaged in various creative activities; to explore, promote and experience caring and compassionate behaviour. Learning by doing, helps their ideas become real and tangible; and repetition helps them to start forming new habits.

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Project One Root

A campaign to promote cancer awareness. We joined hands with the Indian Cancer Society (ICS), which is closely associated with various NGOs and hospitals, such as Tata Memorial Hospital working for the cause. This campaign’s primary goal is to ensure that wigs are distributed free of cost to marginalized, female cancer patients.

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Positive Education Enhanced Curriculum

We are always exploring ways to boost students’ wellbeing, through resources powered by Positive Education Enhanced Curriculum (PEEC). The introduction of each lesson provides the necessary context for students to understand the real-world applications of core wellbeing concepts and practices. Moral education teachers use this value-added resource during the last 15 minutes of the period and encourage students to implement these resources during the week and share their reflections.

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Student Leadership

Leadership is promoted at all levels in the school through explicit extra-curricular programs and curriculum. Student Council Members undergo leadership training that fosters positive interpersonal skills among students and staff while executing various responsibilities. Student leaders develop and sustain a motivated learning community where students experience success on a regular basis.

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Physical Education and Sport

Physical Education is a vital component of our student's physical development and wellbeing. Our PE curriculum is both broad and balanced providing access to the team and individual sports. These are conducted in addition to activities such as music and dance, thereby allowing students to develop both mental and physical wellbeing.

Additional school programs that promote student wellbeing

  • We participate in the Dubai Student Wellbeing Census (conducted by KHDA in collaboration with the South Australian Department for Education). Student feedback surveys give teachers and administrators important information about which parts of a course or program are working and which aren’t.
  • DHA-DPRC Wellness Program for Schools
  • Annual Picnic
  • Yoga and Meditation
  • Pastoral care
  • Zentangle Art Therapy and Pet Therapy to de-stress students before taking external examinations
  • Camps and visits
  • Educational tours
  • Talents Day and House Day programs
  • Buddy system for learners to cope with academic challenges
  • Celebrations of local, national and international festivals
  • Student Wellbeing Champions to plan strategies that aim at creating a positive and happy environment
  • Behaviour Intervention Plan (BIP) is used as a proactive action plan to address behaviour (s) that are impeding the learning of the student
  • Urban Forest helps connect students to the benefits of trees and foster environmental stewardship.