Australian International School Dubai

Social and emotional learning (SEL) at AIS Dubai is integrated into a holistic wellbeing framework that underpins daily learning. URStrong is used as a whole‑school program to explicitly teach friendship skills from Prep onward, promoting belonging, kindness, and healthy conflict resolution. The program aims to improve students' self‑esteem, resilience, and social competence through structured lessons and guided practice. A dedicated team of teachers and Learning Assistants works with classroom staff to embed SEL into everyday teaching and provide targeted support as needed. Regular meetings with parents, and collaboration with support staff and external agencies when appropriate, help tailor interventions and monitor progress while maintaining confidentiality. This approach aligns with AIS Dubai's inclusive education model, which prioritises social and emotional development alongside academics.

SEN at AIS Dubai is delivered through an inclusive education approach described as a 'Support for Learning' model. Early Identification uses formal and informal assessments to identify challenges, sometimes with external professionals. The school provides in‑class support, small‑group teaching, one‑on‑one tuition, and guidance on strategies and resources through a team of trained teachers and Learning Assistants. The focus is on NEED rather than disability, including learners with developmental delays, impairments, or diagnosed disabilities, as well as those requiring extension or enrichment, and those needing EAL/D support. Regular meetings with classroom teachers, parents, support staff and external agencies help tailor Personal Learning Plans and monitor progress. AIS Dubai identifies itself as an inclusive school with a 'Support for Learning' model rather than a specialist SEN institution.

English as an Additional Language (EAL/D) is included within AIS Dubai's inclusive education model. The 'Support for Learning' framework covers learners who require EAL/D support alongside other needs. Assessment tools identify language needs and guide targeted adjustments and strategies. In‑class support and the Learning Assistants team provide language‑focused teaching as part of the broader learning support. AIS Dubai emphasises collaborative development of learning plans with families to address language needs.

Mental wellbeing is a core element of AIS Dubai's approach to education, integrated with SEL to support emotional resilience and belonging. URStrong provides explicit instruction on healthy friendships and social‑emotional skills from early years, contributing to emotional wellbeing and positive peer relationships. The wellbeing framework emphasises a safe, caring school culture where students feel connected and supported. AIS Dubai's adoption of URStrong in the UAE reflects a commitment to evidence‑based wellbeing practices. Wellbeing is supported as a shared responsibility among staff, students, and families to create a nurturing learning environment.

Safeguarding is a top priority at AIS Dubai, with the health, safety and wellbeing of all students considered a school‑wide responsibility. The school maintains a Student Protection Policy and requires staff to report suspected or disclosed child protection concerns to the Executive Principal. If there is an immediate or ongoing threat, it is reported to the relevant local safeguarding authorities in accordance with UAE requirements. Confidential information is handled and shared only with appropriate people involved in the student's learning. The safeguarding framework is complemented by ongoing communication with parents and external agencies as needed.