DPS Dubai: A Pinnacle of Holistic Education
By Ria Malhotra
It is said that a school is a child’s second home. A place one can learn not only about tallying balance sheets or balancing equations, but a place where one can learn about themselves and the world that surrounds them. DPS has been a paragon of holistic development in every sense of the term. The institution provides its pupils with the knowledge provided in textbooks as well as wisdom that can only be gained through meaningful experiences. Holistic education has numerous parameters.
First and foremost, the core focus of an educational institution is its academic curriculum. DPS Dubai teaches an array of subjects that nurture curious minds and develop critical thinking skills. Children can learn at their pace, never shying away from clarifying doubts in a room full of their peers. Teachers too deserve recognition for their hard work and unwavering effort to find interactive mediums like Nearpod to help students learn.
Additionally, DPS encourages the display of creativity by inculcating activities that help pupils display their innovation through art integration projects. It also promotes expression and leadership skills through extracurricular activities which in turn build confidence and boost self-esteem. It provides many a platform to display one’s true identity be it through public speaking, art or even dance and music by participating in inter school events.
Another criterion to provide holistic education includes fostering emotional and social development. As the wellbeing ambassador of the school for two years, I have noticed a change in the mental health of preteens and teens caused by the countless outreach efforts from the school. I, along with the other MHEA council members, have been able to provide a place for the students to feel a sense of belongingness and talk openly in the Zen Zone.
Along with mental health it is essential for any school to ensure the physical well-being of its students. DPS Dubai offers an array of options for a perfect balance between work and play. Not only does it allocate periods for physical education but there are also short bursts of yoga exercise practised in the classroom itself. This is done in the form of breathing, stretching and tapping exercises conducted by the happiness ambassadors of each class which help increase concentration.
Another pillar of providing a well-rounded education resides in developing appreciation for all cultures. The school has taught all students, parents and teachers, not only about the nation we reside in but also the beautiful country that we hail from. Subjects like UAE SST and Indian history ensure that children grow up to be global citizens.
Lastly, holistic education extends beyond the classroom, emphasising the importance of service learning, community involvement, and environmental stewardship. DPS Dubai has implemented community service through SEWA projects and other community outreach initiatives. Additionally, the school has also included parents in the process of education by keeping close ties with them and ensuring that they felt confident regarding the safety and wellbeing of their children.
All in all, Delhi Private School is all about being the best version of oneself, and that is why I am and will always be a proud ambassador of this prestigious institution that is truly the epitome of holistic education.
