Wellbeing | Deira International School | Al-Futtaim, UAE

Teacher playing instrument with students

Wellbeing
at DIS

Happy teachers, confident students, a school that feels balanced. That is the wellbeing standard at DIS.

Listening and Responding

 

Pastoral support runs through form tutors, year leaders and onsite counselling, and student and staff voice is heard through structured wellbeing surveys that shape what we change. Wellbeing here is reviewed, measured and acted on. 

Open communication is encouraged at every level.

Student and staff wellbeing is regularly monitored through structured wellbeing surveys, allowing leadership teams to listen carefully to feedback and respond where support is needed. These surveys help identify pressure points, inform pastoral planning and guide improvements across the school.

Students are supported to speak up when they need help, and staff are encouraged to share feedback and concerns in a culture built on trust and care.

Teacher reading book to students in library


Pastoral Systems and Targeted Support

A clear pastoral structure ensures that students are supported both academically and emotionally. Form tutors, year leaders and senior leaders work closely together to monitor wellbeing, attendance and engagement. Early concerns are identified quickly, and support is put in place in partnership with families.

Onsite counselling and wellbeing support is available for students who need additional emotional or mental health support. This provision sits within the school’s safeguarding framework and is accessed confidentially, helping to normalise help-seeking and emotional care.

 

Wellbeing Through School Life and Events

Wellbeing is also promoted through planned school events and initiatives across the year. These include:

  • wellbeing-focused days and themed activities
  • physical challenges and participation events that promote movement and teamwork
  • assemblies and classroom discussions centred on resilience, balance and self-management

These moments provide space for students to pause, reflect and reconnect, particularly during busy academic periods.

Staff Wellbeing and Community

Staff wellbeing is recognised as essential to a healthy school environment.

DIS actively promotes a positive working culture through:

  • staff wellbeing check-ins and feedback opportunities
  • professional development that supports sustainable practice
  • community-building events, including staff social gatherings and celebrations, which strengthen relationships and morale

By investing in staff wellbeing, the school ensures that teachers and support staff are able to give their best to students, both academically and emotionally.


Physical Wellbeing and Active Lifestyles

Regular physical activity plays a key role in student wellbeing. Access to sports facilities, structured physical education and a wide range of co-curricular activities encourages healthy routines and balance. 

Students are supported to understand the connection between physical activity, mental health and academic focus.

Students tending to school garden


Inclusion as a Wellbeing Priority

Through listening, structured support, meaningful events and a strong sense of community, the school works to ensure that students and staff feel supported, motivated and able to thrive.

Wellbeing at DIS is underpinned by a strong commitment to inclusion. Students with additional needs are supported through tailored strategies and collaborative planning. Support is reviewed regularly and delivered with dignity, ensuring that every child feels valued and included.

Wellbeing at DIS is practical, responsive and embedded into daily school life. 

 

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