As the academic year gains momentum at GEMS International School (GIS), it is essential to focus on nurturing the emotional and social wellbeing of our students. The fast pace of school life, coupled with the demands of academic and extracurricular activities, can sometimes overwhelm students, leading to stress and feelings of isolation. Now, more than ever, we must provide our students with the tools to cultivate calm and meaningful connections, allowing them to thrive in and out of the classroom.

Research underscores the importance of a calm and connected school environment in promoting academic success, emotional regulation, and social engagement. A study by Oberle, Schonert-Reichl, and Lawlor (2012) demonstrated that students who learn emotional regulation techniques perform better academically and exhibit greater resilience in the face of challenges. Calmness allows students to manage stress, approach their learning with a clear mind, and maintain a healthy balance between their academic obligations and their personal wellbeing.

A strong sense of connection to others has been linked to increased happiness and a more positive school experience (Baumeister & Leary, 1995). At GIS, we actively create opportunities for students to build relationships with one another through group projects, collaborative learning experiences, and extracurricular activities. Whether it’s through teamwork in sports, group assignments, or advisory sessions, we emphasize the importance of relationships built on respect, trust, and mutual support.

One of the cornerstones of the IB Learner Profile is being "Caring." Students who embody this quality are not only kind and empathetic towards others, but they also recognize their role in creating an inclusive community. By helping students strengthen their connections with one another, we are building a school culture where empathy and understanding flourish.

Through the WeGrow Programme, GIS aims to foster this deep sense of connection at every stage of a student’s journey. From Grade 6’s focus on belonging to Grade 9’s theme of flourishing, our students are encouraged to build healthy relationships with those around them while maintaining a sense of calm and purpose in their learning.

Ultimately, students who feel calm and connected are more likely to engage positively in their learning, take academic risks, and seek help when needed. This enhances both their academic achievement and overall wellbeing. At GIS, we believe that nurturing calm and connected students leads to a school environment where everyone can thrive, and where challenges are met with resilience and optimism.