Wellbeing and Family First Values
At GEMS Founders School – Dubai South, we believe that academic success flourishes when wellbeing is prioritised and strong partnerships with families are at the heart of school life. Our Wellbeing and Family First values underpin everything we do, ensuring that students feel supported, confident and ready to learn, while parents feel informed, welcomed and heard.
Our Commitment to Wellbeing
We are committed to nurturing the emotional, mental and physical wellbeing of every student and member of our community. Through a range of proactive programmes and initiatives, we help students develop resilience, self-awareness and positive strategies for managing life’s challenges.
MYTE – Manage Your Thoughts and Emotions
Students are supported through MYTE (Manage Your Thoughts and Emotions), a structured programme that helps them understand their emotions, manage stress and develop healthy coping strategies. MYTE empowers students with practical tools to build emotional intelligence, confidence and long-term wellbeing.
Upstrive – Emotional Logging and Journalling
We use Upstrive as a digital platform that enables students to log, reflect on and journal their emotions in a safe and supportive way. This encourages self-reflection, emotional literacy and open communication, while allowing staff to provide timely support where needed.
Whole-School Wellbeing Initiatives
Wellbeing is embedded into school life through regular initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles and positive habits. These include participation in events such as the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which encourages physical activity, teamwork and a lifelong love of fitness.
Professional Support
Our school has trained Mental Health First Aiders who are equipped to provide initial support and guidance to students who may be experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties. In addition, our school counsellor works closely with students, staff and families to provide professional support, advice and interventions where required.
Our Family First Approach
We strongly believe that education works best when schools and families work in partnership. Our Family First approach ensures that parents are actively engaged, informed and supported throughout their child’s learning journey.
Family First Parent Café
The Family First Parent Café provides a welcoming and informal space for parents to connect with one another and with the school community. These sessions encourage open dialogue, collaboration and the sharing of ideas in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Wednesday Family First Forum
Every Wednesday, we host our Family First Forum, where key members of staff are available to meet with parents. This dedicated time allows families to raise questions, share concerns and work collaboratively with the school to find solutions and ensure the best outcomes for students.
Family First Padlet
Our Family First Padlet acts as a one-stop shop for parents, bringing together all key information in one easily accessible place. From important updates and resources to guidance and support, the Padlet ensures families always have the information they need at their fingertips.
Working Together
By combining a strong focus on wellbeing with our Family First values, GEMS Founders School – Dubai South creates a caring, inclusive and supportive environment where students can thrive and families feel truly connected to school life. Together, we build a community that supports not only academic achievement, but also happiness, resilience and lifelong success.