Dean of Students

Wellbeing in Schools Action Research Project.

One positive consequence of the pandemic was that schools around the world began to develop a more full understanding of the role that wellbeing plays in education. In order to support students as they attempted to navigate their learning through an online platform and in the middle of a pandemic, schools had to put wellbeing measures in place fast.

During this time, Global Jaya school created fun, online community events designed to bring people together; we transmitted a weekly wellbeing vlog, we initiated a student wellbeing thermometer and we found new ways to increase access to our student support services.

As the pandemic dissipated and education returned to normal, at GJS we have continued to explore wellbeing practices and supports for our Secondary students. For example, understanding the importance of community, and supporting transitions, our first day of the school year was a day off timetable where we helped students to settle into the school year. The day ended with a fun GJS Amazing Race, culminating in the theatre with a house cheering competition. Counsellors have been holding one on one meetings for all new students in order to check in with how they are settling into the GJS community. They have initiated an SSS lunch club, which is intended as a safe space for any Secondary student to go to in order to chill out and spend time relaxing with the counsellors. 

In order to continue to enhance our work in this field, we were fortunate enough to obtain five places on the Action Research Project exploring wellbeing practices in schools. In collaboration with Research Schools International, Harvard University’s ‘The Flourishing Project’ and the International Baccalaureate, we will learn more about how we can continue to support and enhance the wellbeing of all students at Global Jaya School. Here is the link to the summary of a report into wellbeing schools, that will guide our work in wellbeing at GJS.

Looking to the month ahead, and in support of wellbeing, you may be interested in adding the following dates to your schedule.

Wednesday 18th October (08.00 - 09.00): Parent Workshop on Self-Harm

Following on from a workshop in the previous academic year, where we invited an outside psychologist to help us learn more about self-harm, we are proud to host a follow up to that event. In collaboration with Ibu Risye, a parent with first hand experience connected to self-harm, the counsellors will provide an open forum for others parents to learn about self-harm and how they can support their child if they find out that they are engaging with this risky behaviour. We aim to provide a safe and inclusive space for all Secondary parents wishing to find out more or to share their own experiences of teenage self-harm. 

Tuesday 31st October: Whole School dress up parade

We know that an important component of wellbeing is helping people to feel connected, seen and valued in their community. We also know that this is something that we can actively and explicitly support in the school environment. 

Last year, Primary students, Secondary students, teachers and parents all came together to enjoy a costume parade. Secondary students and Primary students walked together and were cheered along by an enthusiastic and supportive audience. The event was intended to help to connect us as a community and to create positive energy within the school. 

We will plan to hold a similar event this year, so mark your calendars! Further details will be provided closer to the time.