Happy and healthy schools in Dubai get recognition

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) From innovative organic gardens to sugar-free meals at the canteen, schools in Dubai are now taking serious steps to assure that students are happy and healthy.

Three schools in Dubai have earned recognition as winners of the Happy and Healthy School (H2) Award hosted by the City Makers' Sky Blue team, rewarding schools that have made achievements in supporting the health and wellbeing of their school community.

A total of 28 schools applied for the award and an international jury evaluated submissions based on three major criteria - balanced approach, innovation and results.

The winners were recognised at a ceremony hosted on Sunday. The H2 award is part of new initiatives rolled out by the Sky Blue team comprising representatives from Dubai Education Zone, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Sports Council and Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

Swiss International Scientific School received the Healthy and Happy School Award for its initiatives aimed at improving healthy eating, active living and positive environment. From soft seating in classrooms to creating an organic garden, the school has developed a well-rounded plan for inspiring wellness.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, Sabah Rashid, head of primary at the school, said: "Providing students a healthy learning environment is a priority at the school." Rashid said that the school has a stringent healthy eating policy for students as well as training programmes for teachers. "Students are offered healthy, nutritious, balanced meals," she added.

The award for most innovative school in implementing health and wellbeing programmes went to GEMS Wellington Academy - Dubai Silicon Oasis. The school has motivated students to take on the role of healthy eating champions and motivate others around them. Other innovative initiatives at the school include a healthy lifestyle week, mindfulness and nutrition policy with the involvement of parents.

Primary head of house Alana Gaffney and director of secondary school pastoral services Hayley Snee said that the innovations at the school is an ongoing initiative. "We worked very closely with the student and parent body to identify healthy foods that need to be served to the students," said Gaffney.

Meanwhile, Dubai English Speaking School was recognised as Star of the Community for involving students, teachers and parents in their wellbeing activities. The School Of Research Science received a special mention for their submission.

Eman Al Suwaidi, Director of Dubai Model Centre reiterated the importance of the city makers' initiative as an important avenue for developing new services every year.

Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director-General of KHDA, said: "It's exciting to see such a big participation from schools and the fact they continue to prioritise healthy living is a clear indicator of positive changes taking place in Dubai's education system. The awards celebrate the efforts of schools who have successfully prioritised the need to create a positive learning environment."

Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of Dubai Sports Council (DSC), said: "Happiness and health of children is an important subject and the partnership between government entities to recognise excellence in this field is an important step-forward."

Hareb also congratulated the winning schools and praised their efforts for highlighting good practices.