Aspen Heights British School, recently celebrated Global Wellness Day.
Rika van Aswegen, our amazing Secondary Humanities Teacher at Aspen Heights British School, was chosen as the UAE ambassador for this global event. Miss Van Aswegen’s efforts were supported by a passionate team of educators and students from our school. The celebrations featured a variety of engaging activities, showcasing Aspen Heights British School as a leader in advocating for wellbeing and fostering positive change in school communities across the Emirates.
Highlights of the day included a yoga session led by our Principal Mrs. Emma Shanahan, art therapy sessions to help alleviate exam stress, and a lively dance fitness class followed by calming meditation exercises at Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi.
Talking about her experience, Miss Van Aswegen said: “I am so grateful to have been named one of the UAE’s ambassadors for Global Wellness Day. It is a privilege to be representing a country that places such an emphasis on wellness. It is also amazing to be a teacher at Aspen Heights British School, as the school supports staff and student wellness in such a big way. Today’s celebration of Global Wellness Day at our school, along with Mental Health Week earlier this term, exemplifies our commitment to nurturing holistic well-being within our school community and beyond. It’s inspiring to see our students and staff come together to prioritise their physical and mental health.”
Talking about the day’s activities, Mrs Emma Shanahan emphasised the efforts made by the school regarding the physical and mental wellbeing of our community. “Aspen Heights British School is proud to play a role in promoting wellness among our students and staff. Today’s activities, from yoga sessions to dance fitness classes, highlight our dedication to creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive academically and personally. As an ISP school we understand the importance of nurturing life skills that help not only our students, but our entire community to be successful at what they do. Understanding and supporting your own, as well as other’s well-being is an important part of that.”
The Global Wellness Day celebrations at Aspen Heights British School is a great example of the holistic well-being and community engagement that the school is becoming known for. Events like these have contributed to our school receiving the Silver Award for Mental Health from the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools, and furthers our reputation as a school focused on the academic, social and emotional development of our students.