At The British International School Abu Dhabi, student voice drives meaningful change. We’re proud of our wellbeing and safeguarding practices and continue working to ensure every student feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive. Last term, feedback from students and parents has shaped decisions that matter. From expert partnerships to student-led initiatives, wellbeing is not just a goal – it’s part of who we are.
In May, our Safeguarding Team attended theBSME Safeguarding Conference, gaining insightsfrom global leaders. A standout session byAlasdair Roy focused on empowering studentsin the digital world. We brought these ideas backto BIS Abu Dhabi and celebrated SafeguardingAwareness Week with assemblies and PSMEsessions on online safety, led by our Heads ofEthos and supported by teachers.
Student and parent feedback has led to realchange. We’ve introduced new wellbeing roles,adapted school spaces, and refined routinesand curriculum content to better reflect studentneeds. These steps build a more connected, caringschool culture.
Secondary students shared feedback about feeling uneasy in busy bathroom areas. In response, we introduced a calm, staff-managed system to support smoother transitions and are planningupdates to improve visibility and reduceovercrowding. Students have already noticed a more orderly and reassuring environment.
Primary students requested indoor spaces to relaxduring hot days. Weresponded with an activity carousel featuring mindfulness, board games and creative play. Looking ahead, we’re planning outdoor areas forYear 1 and chill-out zones for Secondary students tosupport “devices down at social times.”
Students value PSME for its relevance and focus on relationships. Based on parent feedback,we’re launching a refreshed curriculum in Term 1with collaborative learning, new topics, and morestudent voice. The programme will be FutureReady, covering digital literacy, financial literacy,respectful relationships, and mental health.
Over 92% of students feel their wellbeing is taken seriously, and nearly all report feeling safe with trusted adults to turn to. We’ve introduced Mental Health First Aiders for every year group and are training older students as Mental Health Warriors through Mental Health England’s Peer Assisted Learners programme.
The Student Heads Together team, led by Mrs.McGlue, continues to lead impactful wellbeingprojects, promoting mental health awareness andinclusive activities. Their leadership is shaping astronger, more supportive school environment.
Every change this year reflects our belief that wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility. With support from families, experts, and student leaders, we’re building a culture where every child feels safe, valued, and ready to flourish.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
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