Education in a 21st century learning environment is so much more than having the latest digital hardware and software. For GESS, we have adopted a 360-degree approach that includes students’ holistic development and wellbeing. Check out the initiatives that have been rolled out, with more on the way!
As part of GESS’ five-year plan, student wellbeing is a critical area of focus with a series of related initiatives.
Children cannot engage in learning or develop optimally if any area of their health is impeded. By normalising support-seeking, students feel empowered to seek the support that they need and embrace this as a regular part of school life.
At GESS, we factor in the social-emotional wellbeing of our students when designing age- and purpose-appropriate spaces on campus, and when reviewing our curriculum and programmes. We also organise regular training and workshops for all staff, including non-faculty members, on the fundamentals of how to support student wellbeing, through mindful and appropriate behaviour as well as how to handle situations and issues.
These are not all, as we count more initiatives, already implemented or will soon be.
From AY2023/2024, the restructured Student Wellbeing Department is made up of the Counselling Team, Safeguarding Team and Social Emotional Learning Team with three new positions: Head of Student Wellbeing, Lead Counsellor and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead. This department is steering the school towards new developments, aimed at enhancing the community and support systems around our children with a culture of care and safety. Some of these include:
● a new counselling programme engaging students in workshops and activities to enhance social-emotional skills
● incorporating a child protection curriculum where students learn about respectful relationships, recognising and reporting harm/abuse and protective strategies
● designing a comprehensive support framework built on the principles of a collaborative and integrated multi-tiered system of support, and
● more parent engagement, empowering them as key partners in their child’s wellbeing.
There is also a bigger focus on homeroom teachers forming strong bonds with their students so that teachers become the most accessible, trusted adult for a student. Homeroom teachers can also redirect students to more specialised support when needed.
Last but not least, GESS unveiled a new Student Wellbeing Centre on 16 November 2023 (If you haven’t seen this, it’s right behind the canteen!) This is a purpose-built, student-focused wellbeing space that not only houses the School Counsellors’ offices, but also a space created to be soothing, helps students feel at ease and supports emotional regulation.
