Dwight School Dubai

Wellbeing BULLETIN

12 June 2026

Wellbeing at Dwight School Dubai

As I look back on this year, I am reminded that wellbeing is rarely built through one big event. It develops through the many small experiences students have each day.

Most won't remember every lesson they sat through or every piece of homework they completed. They'll remember the friendship group that got them through a difficult week. The residential trip where they tried something that scared them. The teacher who noticed they weren't themselves on a particular day. The leadership opportunity that gave them confidence. The moment they realised they could do something they didn't think they were capable of.

Those moments are what wellbeing looks like in our school.

This year, our students have had countless opportunities to grow, both inside and outside the classroom. They have taken on leadership roles, represented the school, supported one another through challenges, explored new experiences and learned more about themselves along the way.

One thing we have continued to prioritise is listening. Through surveys, conversations and student voice opportunities, our students have told us what is working well, where they feel supported and where we can continue to improve. Their perspectives play an important role in shaping many of the decisions we make.

The articles in this special edition share just a few examples of the wellbeing work taking place across the school. Together, they tell the story of a community that cares deeply about helping students feel connected, supported and ready to thrive.

Melanie Holmes | Head of Pastoral and Wellbeing | mholmes@dwight.ae

Student Voice

One of the most important tools we have in supporting student wellbeing is listening carefully to our students. Throughout the year, we gather feedback through wellbeing surveys, student voice opportunities, focus groups and everyday conversations. These insights help us better understand students' experiences and identify both strengths and areas for growth.

Our most recent PERMAH wellbeing survey provided some very encouraging results. Our students reported 'healthy to exceptionally healthy' levels of wellbeing, with results showing a positive increase compared to the previous survey. This places Dwight students firmly within the 'healthy to exceptionally healthy' range. Grade 4 students achieved an outstanding score, highlighting the positive experiences many of our younger learners are having at school.

Across all year groups, students reported strong levels of motivation, positive relationships and personal agency. In simple terms, many of our students feel connected to others, engaged in their learning and confident in their ability to make positive choices and contribute to school life.

This aligns with other student voice data collected throughout the year. When asked what they value most about Dwight, students consistently highlighted their teachers, friendships, sense of community and the opportunities available to them both inside and outside the classroom. It is particularly encouraging to see how strongly students identify relationships as a key contributor to their happiness and success at school.

At the same time, student feedback helps us identify where we can continue to improve. One area of focus is helping students feel even more comfortable seeking support when they face challenges. While many students turn to friends for advice, some reported that they would be reluctant to share concerns with others. Creating a culture where every student feels safe to ask for help remains a key priority.

Students also shared that distractions, difficult work and, in some cases, friendship challenges can impact their wellbeing. This feedback allows us to work closely with teachers to ensure learning remains engaging, appropriately challenging and responsive to student needs. It also reinforces the importance of social-emotional learning, digital citizenship and positive relationship-building from an early age.

Perhaps most importantly, the survey results remind us that wellbeing is not a fixed outcome but an ongoing process. By listening carefully to student voice and responding thoughtfully to feedback, we can continue creating an environment where every student feels seen and heard.

We would like to thank our students for their honesty and openness in sharing their experiences, and our parents for their continued partnership in supporting the wellbeing of every child in our community.

As part of the Dubai Students Council’s ongoing efforts to amplify student voice and strengthen student participation in shaping the educational experience across Dubai’s private schools, we are pleased to share with you a student survey developed by the Council's members. This survey is particularly meaningful because it has been designed by students, for students, reflecting the Dubai Students Council’s commitment to ensuring that authentic student perspectives are represented.

The survey aims to gather insights directly from students on the areas that matter most to them, the challenges they face, and the topics they would like the Council to focus on in future initiatives and engagements.

Students in Grade 8 and above are encouraged to participate before the deadline on June 17, 2026.

Thank you for your support in empowering student voice across Dubai’s private school community.

Counselling

At Dwight, student wellbeing is recognised as an essential part of learning, growth, and success. Throughout the academic year, counselling and wellbeing lessons were designed across grade levels to support students’ social, emotional, and personal development.

Self-Awareness and Identity: Students explored self-identity, emotional check-ins, reflection, and personal strengths to help them better understand themselves and build confidence.

Emotional Regulation and Stress Management: Lessons focused on mindfulness, resilience, self-care, wellness, and exam stress management. Students learned healthy coping strategies and emotional regulation skills to support their wellbeing both in and outside the classroom.

Friendships and Social Skills: We encouraged students to build respectful and positive relationships. Topics included kindness, anti-bullying, personal space, friendship skills, playground behaviour, and respectful communication, helping students strengthen empathy, inclusion, and social connections.

Growth Mindset, Confidence, and Motivation: Students explored character strengths, goal setting, and growth mindset strategies that encouraged perseverance, resilience, and positive attitudes towards learning.

Executive Functioning and Study Skills: Lessons supported students in developing time management, organisation, planning, and independent learning skills to help them manage academic responsibilities more effectively.

Decision Making and Problem Solving: Students engaged in activities that encouraged thoughtful choices, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem solving through programmes such as Kelso’s Choices and decision-making activities.

Parent Wellbeing Talks: In addition to student lessons, parent wellbeing talks were conducted throughout the year on topics including Third Culture Kids, Steady Parents, Safe Kids, and Supporting Calm Achievers: Helping Your Child Handle High-Pressure Moments. These sessions provided parents with practical strategies and deeper understanding of children’s emotional wellbeing, regulation, and resilience.

Through these initiatives, Dwight continues to prioritise the holistic development of students by fostering a safe, inclusive, and emotionally supportive school environment.

Prabha Raman | School Counsellor | praman@dwight.ae

Staff Wellbeing

Wellbeing starts with ourselves. As educators, we spend so much time supporting students, guiding them through challenges, and helping them feel safe and understood. For that reason, it is important that staff wellbeing is also given time, space, and attention.

Last week, our staff took part in a wellbeing professional development session focused on safety, resilience, and looking after ourselves while we continue to look after others. We were grateful to welcome Dubai Police, who spoke to staff about keeping our students safe and protecting our wider school community.

We also heard from Lighthouse Arabia in a session led by Dr. Saliha, titled Building Capacity for Uncertainty and Change. The session explored how uncertainty can affect our wellbeing, especially when we are dealing with change, pressure, or situations we cannot fully control. A key message was that uncertainty is not something we can always fix. It is something we learn to navigate.

Staff were encouraged to think about the practical skills that help us stay calm and values-driven, even when things feel challenging. It was a valuable reminder that we must take care of ourselves so that we can show up fully for the students, colleagues, families, and people we care about.

Pre-K - KG2

Creating a Sense of Belonging

We believe that children thrive when they feel seen, valued, and represented within their environment. Through displays that celebrate children's ideas, learning, and identities, we create spaces that reflect the unique individuals within our community. Children are also given meaningful choices within their learning environment, helping them develop independence, confidence, and a sense of ownership over their space.

Valuing Children's Play and Learning

Play is at the heart of learning in the Early Years. We intentionally leave children's play visible rather than resetting environments at the end of each session. This allows children to revisit, extend, and reflect on their learning over time, demonstrating that their ideas, efforts, and creations are respected and valued.

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing

Our learning environments include cosy, calm spaces where children can regulate, reflect, and recharge when needed. We teach children to recognise and understand the feelings and sensations within their bodies, developing emotional awareness from an early age. Through supportive guidance, children learn a range of strategies and tools that help them manage emotions and make choices about what they need to feel safe, calm, and ready to learn.

Building Community Through Inclusion and Teamwork

A strong sense of community is fostered through school-wide systems that promote collaboration, belonging, and inclusivity. Initiatives such as house points encourage teamwork, shared success, and positive relationships across age groups, helping children develop a sense of responsibility towards others and pride in being part of the wider school community.

Creating Predictability and Security

Young children feel most secure when they understand what to expect throughout their day. Visual schedules and consistent routines provide structure and predictability, helping children navigate transitions with confidence. By establishing clear expectations and familiar patterns, we create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and ready to engage in learning.

Megan Hughes | Assistant Principal & Head of Early Years | mhughes@dwight.ae

Grades 1-5

At our school, we believe that happy, healthy children are better able to learn, grow, and thrive. Student wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, and we value our partnership with families in supporting healthy habits both at school and at home.

Throughout the year, students participate in a range of wellbeing and leadership initiatives that help them develop confidence, responsibility, and a strong sense of belonging. Through our IB Learner Profile Awards, student leadership opportunities, service projects, assemblies, and community events, we celebrate the qualities that help students become caring, principled, and reflective members of our community.

We also encourage healthy lifestyle habits that support learning. Adequate sleep, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and positive social connections all play an important role in a child's success. We recommend that students switch off screens at least two hours before bedtime, avoid using devices during meals, and spend time connecting with family and friends face-to-face.

As technology becomes an increasing part of children's lives, we encourage parents to monitor the apps, games, videos, and online content their children engage with daily. Establishing healthy boundaries around screen use helps students maintain focus, build stronger relationships, and develop positive digital habits.

Nutrition is another important factor in student wellbeing and learning. We kindly ask families to provide healthy snacks and lunches that fuel students throughout the day. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-rich foods help maintain energy and concentration, while foods such as chips, candy, chocolate, and sugary drinks can negatively impact focus and wellbeing.

By working together to promote healthy habits, strong relationships, leadership, and wellbeing, we can help our students become balanced, resilient, and successful learners both inside and outside the classroom.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Roel Roberts | Dean (G1-G5) | rroberts@dwight.ae

Grade 6

Throughout the year, Grade 6 students have participated in a range of enriching activities. In October, a group of students attended an Emirates Environmental Group workshop, where they explored environmental issues and learned about sustainability initiatives. Later that month, students enjoyed a live performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the QE2, bringing Shakespeare’s work to life in an engaging and accessible way.

One of the highlights of the year was the Grade 6 residential trip to Hatta in November. Students challenged themselves through a variety of outdoor activities while developing teamwork, resilience, and friendships.

In January, students participated enthusiastically in Upper School Sports Day, demonstrating teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit. This was followed by International Day in February, where students celebrated the rich diversity of our community through cultural stalls, performances, and activities that promoted understanding and global-mindedness.

These experiences have played an important role in supporting student wellbeing by encouraging connection, confidence, collaboration, and a strong sense of community.

Jacques Killian | Dean (G6) | jkillian@dwight.ae

Grades 7-8

This year, our students have been on a journey of growth, learning not only how to improve their physical wellbeing through personalised fitness plans in Health lessons, but also how to develop the skills needed to thrive as members of our school community. Through initiatives such as the Advisory Challenge, students were encouraged to demonstrate positive behaviour, improve punctuality and attendance, contribute to their House, and take pride in their achievements.

Students also had opportunities to strengthen their resilience, independence, and teamwork through experiences such as the Al Ain residential trip. Throughout the year, they have learned to take responsibility for their actions, reflect on the impact of their choices, and seek support when needed. Supported by a strong network of advisors, teachers, counsellors, and pastoral staff, our students continue to develop the confidence, character, and self-awareness needed to flourish both in school and beyond.

Ana Rimbu | Dean (G7 & G8) | arimbu@dwight.ae

Grades 9-10

This year, our Grade 9 and 10 students have had many opportunities to grow beyond the classroom. The Grade 9 residential trip to Al Ain gave students the chance to step out of their usual routines, spend time with different peers, and build confidence through shared experiences. We have also seen students challenge themselves through the International Award camping trips, where they learned to take responsibility, support one another, and manage situations that were not always easy or familiar.

Across Grades 9 and 10, wellbeing has also been visible in the everyday moments. Students have taken on leadership roles, welcomed new students into the community, built new friendships, and learned how to manage the pressure that comes with exams and deadlines. It has been encouraging to see them become more independent, more reflective, and more aware of the people around them.

Melanie Holmes | Dean (G9 & G10) | mholmes@dwight.ae

Grades 11-12

Wellbeing in Grades 11 and 12 means ensuring that students feel known, supported and able to manage the increasing academic and personal demands of the senior school years. These are exciting years, but they can also bring considerable pressure as students balance coursework, internal assessments, the Extended Essay, examinations, university applications and decisions about their futures.

Our approach is both proactive and responsive. We regularly monitor students’ attendance, punctuality, engagement and academic progress so that concerns can be identified early. Where a student may be struggling, we work closely with the student, their family, advisors, teachers, counsellors and the wider DP team to put appropriate support in place.

Students also take part in weekly college counselling sessions with Mr Turner. These sessions provide regular guidance on university applications, future pathways and the decisions students need to make after school. Having this consistent support helps to reduce uncertainty and allows students to approach the application process in a more informed and manageable way.

Much of our wellbeing work also happens through everyday conversations. Students are encouraged to ask for help, communicate when they feel overwhelmed and develop realistic strategies for managing their workload. Individual meetings allow us to help students prioritise deadlines, establish manageable routines and identify the specific support they need.

We have also focused on strengthening communication between school and home, particularly during periods of increased academic pressure. By working collaboratively with families, we aim to ensure that students receive consistent guidance while also developing the independence and personal responsibility they will need beyond school.

Alongside academic support, we continue to celebrate student achievement, progress, leadership and contribution to the school community. Recognising these successes helps students build confidence, feel a stronger sense of belonging and understand that their value extends beyond examination results.

Our goal is not to remove every challenge students face, but to ensure that they have the relationships, strategies and support needed to respond to challenges with resilience and confidence.

Michelle Francis | Dean (G11 & G12) | mfrancis@dwight.ae

Reading Dogs Visit to Alleviate Exam Stress

As exam season loomed, Grade 11 students were treated to a timely visit from our favourite Reading Dogs, arguably the most composed members of any revision session. The initiative offered a welcome pause from revision intensity, reminding students that sometimes the most effective study strategy involves an induced sense of calm.

First Aid Course

I am very proud of how students in our First Aid ECA are engaging with the course. So far we have introduced a wide range of skills: how to ensure that it is safe to take action with a scene assessment, how to check for breathing and consciousness, how to put someone into the recovery position, and how to deliver CPR with rescue breaths. We have also had a lot of fun.

It is comforting to know that in our community, we have responsible and informed students that are ready and empowered to take action. Action that could literally save lives. Well done Life Savers!

Nicola Ashton | Head of Science | nashton@dwight.ae

The Year of the Family

Quality time spent with family is important for our wellbeing.

It was great to see the engagement and messages posted on our padlet for the recent phone-free family day initiative. We hope our community found time over the Eid holiday to connect with family and friends too!

Click here to view the slideshow of messages posted on the padlet and add your contributions.

Year of the FamilyMade with Padlet

Wellbeing in our House Families

Winners of the charitable contribution - Improving Wellbeing of others

Congratulations to Idris (Falcons), Marcus (Leopards) and Mohammed (Scorpions) for winning our Contribution to Charity Challenge - they are pictured below proudly displaying their certificates. Their generosity has helped support people in need by contributing towards essentials such as food, improving the wellbeing of others in our community. Well done for showing kindness and making a positive difference!

Next week: Interhouse Sports - Lunchtime - Lions Den - Improve Wellbeing through exercise!

Next week, Lower School students will take part in Interhouse Games during lunchtime on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Students are encouraged to wear their House colours during their scheduled Lion's Den lunchtime slot. Coloured bibs will be available for those who do not have House-coloured clothing.

Jack Beere | PE Teacher & Lower School Head of House | jbeere@dwight.ae

Service as Action

Upcoming Events

ECAs for Lower School

Please note that internal ECAs for Lower School will not run on Tuesday 16th and Wednesday 17th June, due to the Parent-Teacher Conferences. External ECAs will continue as normal.

I have the honor of announcing that the annual Art and Design exhibition is now open!

This year, we have created a website which hosts all the work produced by our creative students. As always, I am extremely proud of what our students have been able to produce with the guidance and support of my incredible team.

Please scan the QR code in the poster to explore the virtual exhibition.

I hope you all enjoy the virtual tours.

Andrew Georgiou | Head of Art and Design | ageorgiou@dwight.ae

Dear Families,

The Performing Arts Department would like to invite you to our Annual Summer Concert, under the theme Together as One, a special celebration of our community through music and our students’ talents.

Concert dates and times can be found on the flyer and more information (including the dress code for student performers) can be found in the invitation letter shared on Monday.

We hope to see you there!

Bertha Silot | Head of Performing Arts | bsilot@dwight.ae

Summer Camps

More Info - Multi Sports Camp

More Info - Little Explorer Camp

Current House Point Totals

29,503

29,068

28,267

27,171

Message from the Head of School - 12 June 2026

Dear Parents,

Celebrating Creativity, Real-World Learning and Achievement
This week provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate learning across our school community, from our youngest learners in PreK to our Grade 10 students as they reached a significant milestone in their educational journey.

PreK Book Launch: Young Authors Take Centre Stage
As part of their Unit of Inquiry, How We Express Ourselves, our PreK students proudly hosted their very own Book Launch Event. Throughout the unit, students explored the power of stories and the many ways people communicate ideas, feelings, and experiences. Inspired by their learning, the children became authors and illustrators, collaboratively writing and publishing their own book. The launch provided an authentic audience for our young writers, allowing them to share their work with family members, teachers, and friends.

Grade 10 Work Experience Showcase: Learning Beyond the Classroom
This year's Work Experience Showcase highlighted the ambition, resilience, and professionalism of our Grade 10 students following their industry placements. Despite the challenges and regional uncertainty experienced this year, our students embraced the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and immerse themselves in a wide range of local and international organizations.

Throughout the showcase, students reflected on their experiences and demonstrated the skills they developed in workplace settings. The showcase was a reminder of the importance of experiential learning and the value of connecting education to the wider world. We are proud of our students for the maturity, initiative, and commitment they demonstrated throughout their work experience placement.

Grade 10 MYP Celebration: Recognising Growth and Achievement
The Grade 10 MYP Celebration recognises academic achievement, but also the personal resiliance and growth students have demonstrated throughout their International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) journey. As students prepare to begin the Diploma Programme (DP), Career-related Programme (CP) or a new chapter elsewhere, we congratulate them on this important milestone.

School Consultative Group (SCG)
The SCG is a collaborative advisory body that serves as a critical friend to the school. Its purpose is to provide constructive challenge, strategic insight, and community perspectives that support the continued development of Dwight School Dubai.

The SCG seeks to:

Contribute ideas, expertise, and innovative thinking to enhance the educational experience and outcomes for all students.
Support key school initiatives and projects by providing specialist knowledge, professional expertise, and perspectives from beyond the education sector.
Contribute to the school's self-evaluation and continuous improvement processes.
Strengthen the partnership between the school and its parent community through meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

Members of the SCG will participate in one or more focus groups, with allocation based on individual interests, experience, and areas of expertise. Members are expected to actively engage in discussions, contribute thoughtfully to themed areas of focus, and present ideas and recommendations that support the school's ongoing development.

How to Become Involved
Parents who wish to be considered for membership of the SCG are invited to submit a current CV together with a letter or email outlining their suitability, relevant experience, and areas of interest relating to education, community engagement, wellbeing, sustainability, or school improvement.

Applications should be addressed to the Head of School and the Chief Operating Officer for Dwight Schools at cburnett@dwight.ae. A selection committee, comprising the Head of School, the Chief Operating Officer for Dwight Schools, and other designated representatives, will review all applications. Appointments will be made with consideration given to ensuring a broad range of skills, experiences, and perspectives are represented within the group. Further information can be found here.

Please click here to read our special edition Wellbeing Bulletin and this week's notices.

Warm regards,

David Hutson | Head of School

Upcoming Dates

Monday, 1st to Friday, 19th June | End of Year Assessments / Examinations for Grades 1 to 9 & 11

Please find below the Assessment Week Timetables for Grades 6 to 9 GL Progress Tests (English, Mathematics and Science), Etqaan Arabic and Islamic Assessments, and Grade 11 DP & BTEC Assessments:

Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8, Grade 9, Grade 11

*please note some adjustments have been made to the timetables to accommodate the Islamic New Year holiday* - link to list of re-scheduled examinations

For Grades 1 to 5, pupils will complete their GL Assessments during their homeroom lessons, staggered over the three week period from 1st to 19th June, to ensure an age-appropriate setting for the children. For Etqaan Assessments, these will also be staggered in their normal Arabic and Islamic lessons.

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Monday 15 June

Islamic New Year - school closed

Tuesday 16 June & Wednesday 17 June

PreK to Grade 5 Student-Led Conferences | 4:00 - 7:00 | Classrooms

Please note that internal ECAs for Lower School will not run on these 2 evenings. External ECAs will continue as normal.

Friday 19 June

Coffee Morning for Friends of Dwight | 8:15 - 9:15 | Cafeteria

Grade 11 Theory of Knowledge (TOK) Exhibition | 10:30 - 11:30 | IB Hub

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Monday 22 June

MYP Transition Week (for Grade 5 students)