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Student Well-Being

At BSS, student well-being is essential for learning and flourishing, and a core part of how we educate girls.
Rooted in positive psychology, our approach to well-being emphasizes flexibility, creativity and resilience — qualities at the heart of inquiry.  Our research-driven programs and services are fully integrated into school life from JK to Grade 12, enhancing academic achievement, fostering connection and meaning, and encouraging personal development. Through consultations with students, parents and faculty, we’ve built a framework that addresses the real needs and challenges that impact our students’ learning, like perfectionism, anxiety, time management and social dynamics. Aligned with the principles of inquiry-based learning, well-being at BSS emphasizes agency, competence and the importance of relationships. It is not about being free from difficulties, but developing the knowledge and skills to navigate challenges and thrive. It nurtures both intellectual capability and emotional wellness in each student so they may lead fulfilling lives.

List of 2 items.

  • Circle of Care

    The Circle of Care centers the child in education, reinforcing that student well-being is essential for learning and growth. This collaborative approach relies on continuous communication, assessment and a commitment to responding to students’ diverse identities and needs holistically. Parents and guardians are integral to this network, working alongside our educators to support each student’s journey.
  • Tiered Support

    Our tiered approach to well-being establishes a strong foundation for all students, with increasing levels of support for those facing challenges. The first tier promotes well-being by fostering social connections, inclusion, belonging and positive practices in both explicit and implicit ways, inside and outside the classroom. For students encountering difficulties, we offer progressively specialized support, collaborating with internal teams and external providers as needed.

Domains of Well-Being

We understand well-being as the balance between seven domains that align with the seven attributes of the Signature of a BSS Girl. When thoughtfully and seamlessly integrated into our curriculum and programs, students feel seen, valued and heard. They cultivate their own unique well-being skill set — and empower others to do the same.

List of 7 items.

  • Adaptable Mindset

    An adaptable mindset helps students identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to stress. It enables students to view both successes and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Adaptability leads to a growth mindset.
  • Empathy and Compassion

    Empathy and compassion enable students to recognize feelings, challenges and circumstances, fostering connection and kindness towards one’s self and others. Cultivating empathy and compassion builds ethical citizens.
  • Gratitude

    Gratitude promotes positive emotions, broadens the mind and boosts creativity. Appreciating what is going well, despite challenges, builds social connections and coping mechanisms — contributing to life-long psychological flourishing. Gratitude fosters curiosity.
  • Mindfulness

    Engaging in mindful awareness helps students understand their inner state and respond to their experiences in the most effective way possible. Practicing mindfulness helps develop self-awareness.
  • Self-Regulation

    Understanding the mind-body connection enables students to embrace all their emotions, align their actions with their values and goals, and build a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy. Practicing self-regulation develops grit.
  • Kindness and Connection

    Affirming each person’s identity allows students to show up authentically, connect meaningfully and practice kindness. Kindness and connection enables healthy relationships, a diverse community, and challenging, meaningful learning. It is the basis for empowering each students’ unique voice.
  • Character Strengths

    By acknowledging and valuing the unique identities of each member of our community, we build our individual and collective strength. Students are empowered to have a positive impact on people, communities and the world. Recognizing and using their strengths builds leaders.

What well-being looks like at BSS

Across the school, well-being covers all aspects of a student's educational experience: academic, social-emotional, physical and spiritual.