It is now widely considered that supporting the mental health of students throughout their education is a vital element of the services any educational facility should provide. When the wellbeing of a child is given the same importance as the child’s learning experience there is substantial evidence to show positive changes are made not only within the child’s education, but also in their life and opportunities beyond school.
| Well-being
/wɛlˈbiːɪŋ/ Noun noun: wellbeing ‘the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.’ |
Over recent decades progressively more attention has been given to child wellbeing in education, as the amount of influential reports on mental and emotional health increase, asserting that the issue needs addressing. Amongst these studies was a 2007 UNICEF overview of child wellbeing in rich countries that found children were feeling disproportionately dissatisfied and unhappy due to issues such as depression, anxiety and antisocial behavior. Such reports have resulted in acceptance of the need to improve well being among school-aged children around the world.
The positives of wellbeing in school
Wellbeing is a complex topic and provides many positive aspectives for every student; it’s not simply a matter of ‘being well’. Obviously a general wellbeing will eradicate depression and bring about feelings of happiness, but this also brings about confidence and important self control in a young person, essential for: determination, resilience, problem solving and working within a team.
Socially, a positive wellbeing allows children to have beneficial relationships with classmates and teachers, and it helps individuals to avoid becoming involved in disruptive or bullying behaviour.
It is seen as critical today that a school should consistently aim to create a nurturing and positive environment for every single student in their care. Schools that implement teaching practices, resources and amenities to support the wellbeing of students will increase happiness, academic success, reduce violent behavior and protect the school community.
A healthy environment for promoting wellbeing in school
Following the recommendations of organisations like The World Health Authority, a school can establish a helpful environment for the promotion of wellbeing by implementing the following:
- policies and practices that respect students wellbeing
- counselling services
- health services along
- nutrition and food safety programmes
- physical education
- after school activities
- program for social support and mental health promotion
| Quote:
“I never teach my pupils. I can only attempt to provide the conditions in which they can learn.” — ALBERT EINSTEIN |
International School Ho Chi Minh City American Academy – Services to support Wellbeing
Parent Information & Resources
ISHCMC-AA parents and guardians are able to access helpful tips, guides and resources to support their child’s learning and well-being via the Parent Information & Resources page of the Student & Parent Central portal.
ISHCMC-AA Wellness Center
There is always a warm welcome and good advice for parents and students at the American Academy’s Health Center or the Student Services Department, the school department that specializes in the overall health and wellbeing of students in room 405.
Health Center Contact Information:
Contact: Nurse Hong
Email: aanurse.aavn@cognita.com
Tel: 028 3898 9100 ext.177
Student Services Department
Contact: Mr. Rob Wilson, Director of Student Services
Email: rob.wilson@aavn.edu.vn
| Quote:
“Safe and supportive schools are critical to the well-being of the whole school community as well as the academic success of students.” Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) US Department of Education |
Part of the Cognita family
International School Ho Chi Minh City American Academy is part of the Cognita family, a group of international schools that provide ‘a uniquely global education that goes beyond grades to develop all-round academic excellence’. Cognita schools work to equip students with the self esteem, skills and international perspective to thrive and achieve success in their life, work and community.
Wellbeing is the foundation of a Cognita Education and integral to their purpose of ‘Providing an inspiring world of education’ that will build self-belief and empower individuals to succeed.
Cognita.com
