Wellbeing & Pastoral Care at HISV
At Heathfield International School Vientiane, wellbeing is central to learning and personal growth. Our Wellbeing Curriculum and Pastoral Care provision work together to support confident, resilient and compassionate young people who are prepared for life in a changing world.
Our Wellbeing Curriculum
Strong wellbeing supports strong learning. Research shows that students with positive wellbeing demonstrate higher resilience, engagement and academic outcomes. At HISV, our Wellbeing Curriculum equips students with practical, age-appropriate skills to understand themselves, manage challenges and develop lifelong emotional strength.
Grounded in Growth Mindset and Mindfulness, the programme is inclusive, purposeful and embedded into everyday school life.
Four Key Strands of Wellbeing
The Wellbeing component of the Oxford International Curriculum (OIC) focus on the following four strands:
Taking Care of the Body
Students learn how physical health, movement, rest and nutrition support mental wellbeing. Through understanding neuro-plasticity, they discover that abilities grow through effort and practice.
Taking Care of the Mind
Children explore thoughts and emotions, practise mindfulness and develop strategies to manage stress—building calm focus and long-term resilience.
Taking Care of Relationships
Students develop communication skills, empathy and conflict-resolution strategies, including learning how to engage safely and respectfully online.
Taking Care of the World
Learners reflect on purpose, strengths and contribution, developing self-awareness, goal-setting skills, and a sense of responsibility within their community.
Dedicated Wellbeing Space
Wellbeing lessons are delivered in a dedicated, calming room designed to promote reflection, emotional safety and focus.
Pastoral Care & Student Support
Our Pastoral Care Officer (PCO) plays a vital role in supporting students’ social and emotional wellbeing. As a trained safeguarding team member, the PCO works closely with staff and leadership to ensure every child feels safe, supported and valued.
Pastoral support includes:
Mentoring and emotional guidance
Support during personal or social challenges
Development of healthy behaviours and coping strategies
Collaboration on Inclusion Week and whole-school wellbeing initiatives
Targeted support for behavioural or emotional needs
At HISV, we promote the belief that “being unique is normal”, celebrating diversity and respect across race, culture, belief, gender, and ability.
Positive Behavior for Growth
We believe positive behaviour is built through clarity, respect and shared responsibility. Class expectations are co-created with students, encouraging ownership and accountability. Our approach is guided by:
Clear expectations
Respectful communication
Compassion and fairness
Responsibility for actions
Healthy & Safety
The safety of our community is paramount. Our Health & Safety Officer (HSO) ensures secure learning environments through daily checks, regular monitoring and professional maintenance of safety systems. These measures ensure preparedness, protection and peace of mind for students and staff.
