At ISKL we talk about a “holistic” education that produces confident students who explore and pursue their interests with passion, are self-directed, and successful in managing the complexities of our evolving world.  What does this truly mean and how do we go about this at ISKL? Over the past few weeks in Panther News I have touched on one aspect of how we achieve this by equipping our students with “future-ready” skills. Over the coming weeks we will be turning our focus in Panther News to another highly important aspect of a holistic education – physical, emotional, social, and cognitive wellbeing.

The years of Early Childhood through High School are all critical periods for developing positive attitudes, skills and knowledge around health and wellbeing. I deeply believe that embracing wellness is a key skill that needs to be explicitly taught, modeled and practiced so that our students are able to make good choices for themselves, others, and the environment.  Our counselors provide an invaluable support network in helping teach and nurture these skills. From our youngest learners in Prep Reception to our Seniors graduating next year their goal is consistent – to help and support each of our students develop the skills they need to navigate the challenges life presents, and lead a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life both now and in the future.

Topics our counseling teams are working on with students at the moment range from mindfulness and body image through to self-reflection and planning.  There is a common thread in their role, not just to these topics, but to all that our counselors do which stands out above all others – to listen with empathy so that our students feel heard, valued and acknowledged. Our counselors are important stewards of our students’ emotional and health wellbeing and a critical component of providing a holistic education at ISKL.

Yours in collaboration and learning,

Rami Madani
Head of School