Wellbeing | Universal American School | Al-Futtaim, UAE

Wellbeing

It is a simple question, but at Universal American School it reflects something real. 

 

From student clubs and wellbeing events to activities for staff and strong parent involvement, UAS works hard to create a caring and safe environment where students, staff, and families feel supported and valued.

 

Wellbeing Built into Learning

Wellbeing at UAS is integrated into units of work and everyday lessons so that students regularly engage with wellbeing concepts as part of their learning.

A key feature of the school year is a dedicated Wellbeing Week, where important wellbeing themes are highlighted and then carried forward throughout the academic year. Activities during the week include school-wide projects such as Mindful Moments and the Wellbeing Evening of the Arts.

The Wellbeing Evening of the Arts results in finished student work being displayed around the campus, making wellbeing visible and shared across the school community.

Student Leadership and Positive Behaviour

Student voice plays an important role in wellbeing at UAS. Student-led initiatives are supported through the Dean of Students, and include the Wellbeing Club, Big Brother Big Sister, and House Captains.

Positive behaviour is recognised and celebrated through monthly assemblies, where the school highlights a specific wellbeing concept such as inclusiveness, integrity, or respect. These moments help reinforce shared values and encourage students to support one another.

Staff Wellbeing

UAS recognises that staff wellbeing is closely linked to student wellbeing. Faculty and support staff are offered regular social opportunities, including Trivia Nights, Karaoke Sessions, Monthly Mingles, and Secret Buddies, helping to build connection and morale.

Mental health and wellbeing support for staff is available through Al-Futtaim’s HealthHub and other wellness centres. Dedicated spaces on campus also allow staff time to pause, recharge, and access support when needed.

Support Networks Across the School

Students, staff, and parents at UAS have access to multiple layers of support. These include counsellors,Wellbeing Leaders, Student Leadership Teams, Inclusion support, and the Dean of Students.

Regular feedback from students and staff helps the school adapt and personalise wellbeing initiatives. Because voices are heard, programmes continue to evolve to meet the real needs of the community.

Students are actively involved in planning and running wellbeing activities, while staff initiatives are shaped by staff feedback, ensuring support remains relevant and meaningful.

Parents as Partners

Parents play an important role in the wellbeing of the UAS community. The school engages families through coffee mornings, end-of-unit celebrations, and parent workshops facilitated by Lighthouse Arabia.

These opportunities allow parents to stay connected to their children’s learning, understand the wellbeing messages shared at school, and strengthen the home-school partnership.

Impact and Growth

Over the past two years, UAS wellbeing initiatives have been positively received across the community. The school has recorded an increase of over 40 points in its Net Promoter Score, reflecting growing satisfaction among families, alongside positive trends in teacher and student feedback.

Students have also responded positively to upgraded facilities, including the cafeteria, sports running track, new sports gym, and new playground, which contribute to both physical wellbeing and enjoyment of school life.

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