At ED-SG Education Consultancy, we understand that choosing the right school for your child is about more than academics. It’s about finding a place where they can thrive emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Many international schools in the UAE are leading the way in holistic education by adopting the PERMA model, a transformative framework developed by Dr. Martin Seligman, a pioneer in Positive Psychology. PERMA—Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment—is designed to nurture well-being and resilience. Here’s why this matters for your family.

1. Positive Emotion

The foundation of the PERMA model is cultivating positive emotions, essential for mental health and motivation. Schools in the UAE are incorporating mindfulness sessions, gratitude journals, and celebratory assemblies to foster joy and optimism. For parents, this means confidence that your child is learning to navigate challenges with a positive outlook.

2. Engagement

Engagement encourages students to immerse themselves in activities that align with their strengths and passions. Whether through arts, sports, STEM projects, or extracurricular clubs, schools adopting the PERMA model ensure students are exploring their interests and developing a strong sense of focus. Parents can feel reassured that their child’s potential is being discovered and nurtured.

3. Relationships

Building meaningful relationships is at the heart of the PERMA framework. UAE schools are fostering strong connections through peer mentoring programs, group projects, and community service initiatives. These efforts create an environment where students feel valued and supported, providing peace of mind for parents who prioritize their child’s social development.

4. Meaning

A sense of meaning comes from contributing to something greater than oneself. Schools aligned with the PERMA model engage students in sustainability projects, cultural celebrations, and ethical discussions. These experiences shape students into conscientious global citizens, giving parents confidence that their child is growing into a well-rounded individual.

5. Accomplishment

Recognizing and celebrating achievements, big or small, is key to building resilience and self-esteem. Schools embracing PERMA highlight diverse accomplishments through awards, exhibitions, and student-led initiatives. For parents, this focus ensures your child’s progress and efforts are recognized, motivating them to excel.

Schools Leading the Way

Several international schools in the UAE are redefining education by embedding well-being and positive psychology into their curricula and educational practices, including:

  • Regent International School, Dubai
  • Sunmarke School, Dubai
  • Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Dubai
  • The Arbor School, Dubai
  • GEMS Education Schools, Dubai and Abu Dhabi
  • Repton, Abu Dhabi
  • Nord Anglia School, Abu Dhabi

Why Choose a School with the PERMA Model?

The PERMA model is a proven framework that meets the diverse needs of students in today’s fast-paced world. By prioritizing emotional intelligence, resilience, and a love for learning, these schools prepare students to excel in every aspect of life. The UAE’s multicultural environment further enhances the implementation of PERMA, ensuring students gain both global awareness and personal fulfillment.

How You Can Support PERMA at Home

As parents, you play a vital role in extending the benefits of the PERMA model into your home. Here are some actionable tips:

  • Positive Emotion:
    • Share daily gratitude moments as a family.
    • Create a “positivity board” to highlight achievements and happy memories.
    • Enjoy feel-good activities together, such as watching uplifting movies or reading inspiring books.
  • Engagement:
    • Encourage hobbies that align with your child’s interests.
    • Limit screen time and promote interactive activities like puzzles or gardening.
    • Participate in community events to explore new passions.
  • Relationships:
    • Plan regular family outings or game nights to strengthen bonds.
    • Teach and practice active listening during conversations.
    • Support your child’s friendships by arranging playdates or group activities.
  • Meaning:
    • Volunteer as a family to support local charities or environmental causes.
    • Discuss global issues and brainstorm ways to make a difference.
    • Celebrate cultural traditions to deepen your child’s sense of identity.
  • Accomplishment:
    • Set realistic goals and celebrate progress.
    • Use a “success jar” to collect and reflect on achievements.
    • Provide constructive feedback to help your child learn from challenges.

How we can Help:

At ED-SG Education Consultancy, we believe that education is about more than academics—it’s about nurturing the whole child. The adoption of the PERMA model in UAE international schools reflects a forward-thinking approach to holistic development. By choosing a school that embraces PERMA, you’re giving your child the tools to succeed not just in school, but in life. Let us help you find the perfect fit for your family’s educational journey.