AISA recognises that schools play a vital role in promoting the social and emotional development and wellbeing of students. Students resilience and wellbeing are essential for both academic and social development, and are promoted by safe, supportive and respectful learning environments – that is, our teachers. Which is why the wellbeing of our teachers and leaders is so important.
Mentally healthy and supported teachers are more collaborative, more creative, and more willing to take risks. They contribute positively to school climates and improve student experiences simply by harnessing their potential and strengths. Teacher wellbeing is integral to student wellbeing.
Which is why wellbeing, in the form of Wellbeing for All, is an important strategic initiative that was adopted by the Board well before COVID-19 overtook our world.
To support the AISA community in their efforts to promote the wellbeing of leaders, educators and students, AISA has a number of professional learning opportunities, webinars and online community groups to give our schools the resources and support they need.
Upcoming events include:
Are you leading a wellbeing initiative in your school, then why not join the AISA Wellbeing For All Community of Practice? This is an Online Community of Practice that will meet every month to discuss ways to implement your programme, be inspired by other wellbeing leaders and share resources. These include:
This is a cost free and convenient way for AISA members to hear from leading experts from around the world, and from within our own community, on child protection and wellbeing themes. Every other week, AISA hosts a webinar that gives our members access to the latest research and thinking on topics that are now more important than ever.
There is overwhelming evidence on the benefits a regular yoga and mindfulness practice has on our mental health and wellbeing. To support our AISA educators everywhere, AISA offers a 30-minute online yoga and mindfulness practice every month, following our Thriving Thursday webinar series. Why not make this part of your regular self-care practice?
For more information on how AISA can support your school’s Child Protection and Well-being Programme, contact AISA’s Child Protection & Wellbeing Programme Manager, Chanel Worsteling
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AISA has a substantial range of AISA-created wellbeing resources as well as some collected from some of the most respected experts in the field. These resources are easily searchable and downloadable to all AISA member schools’ leaders, educators, programme coordinators and co-professionals responsible for their school’s wellbeing programme.
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Unfortunately, events occur within the locale of our schools that are outside of the schools’ control, but which can adversely affect our school communities. Traumatic events that may impact AISA schools can include terrorist attack, coup d’etat, civil unrest, war, communicable disease outbreak, or a natural disaster.
These events can cause significant disruption to a school’s operations which can have adverse consequences for the mental health and wellbeing of staff and the entire school community.
AISA can support schools through this time by offering assistance in the form of funds to have trained counsellors from the region to travel to the school to provide direct services to children, staff and parents. Additionally, AISA’s professional development program will include training on issues such as security, traumatic incident planning and trauma recovery to equip schools in their planning for such an eventuality.
The Association of International Schools in Africa is dedicated to serving its members throughout Africa during this challenging time. Please let us know if you require additional or specific information, resources and or support, and we will endeavour to assist you as soon as possible.