Al Hekma International School

AHIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a values-driven, school-wide approach. The Vision states AHIS aims to foster global citizenship, high self-esteem, low anxiety, and a strong sense of belonging. The school describes its environment as safe and nurturing, with a professional staff supporting students across academic life, activities, and events. The Life Skills program provides SEL-aligned curricula across grades: Kindergarten CARE (Caring, Articulated, Respectful, Engaged); Elementary BEST (Brave, Engaged, Self-confident, Tolerant); Middle School D.A.R.E (Disciplined, Accountable, Reflective, Engaged); High School RE.A.C.H (Responsibility, Engagement, Accountability, Confidence, Honesty). The program emphasizes staff support to meet students' SEL needs throughout the school years.

AHIS provides a Gifted & Talented Programs (GT) for students with high capability. An Intervention Education Plan (IEP) is designed for Gifted and Talented students by the Learning Support Team. The GT program seeks to engage students through venues for research, problem-solving, leadership, and social-emotional development. For students who are struggling academically, teachers offer remedial classes, tutoring, and access to social workers and counselors, with differentiation and IEP plans to assist learning. AHIS is not described as a separate SEN institution; SEN support is integrated through GT and Learning Support within the school.

The language of instruction is English. On-campus Arabic language options can be arranged for interested students through Special Arabic teachers. AHIS operates an American Program and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with English as the primary language of instruction. Differentiation and an IEP process are used to support diverse learners, including needs related to English as an additional language. The school also notes on-campus Arabic language offerings and an international, multilingual student body as part of its language and EAL approach.

Mental wellbeing is supported through a safe and nurturing environment; the Vision emphasizes low anxiety and high self-esteem. The school aims to foster belonging and global citizenship as part of wellbeing. The Life Skills program across Kindergarten to High School includes staff dedicated to supporting student wellbeing through a professional team. Affiliations with professional bodies (NESA, ASCD, UNESCO, PTC) indicate ongoing staff development that can support wellbeing. The IB DP candidacy and other global programs promote holistic development that underpins student wellbeing.

The school does not publicly disclose safeguarding and child protection policies on its site. The Vision describes a safe, nurturing environment with a sense of belonging. The Life Skills program across K-12 emphasizes safety and care as part of its values. The Life Skills page notes a professional staff dedicated to supporting students' well-being. AHIS's affiliations with professional bodies indicate formal professional development and policy alignment that may inform safeguarding practices.