On the French Riviera, families are increasingly looking for schools that offer more than academic excellence. At Mougins British International School, wellbeing is woven into everyday learning, helping children grow into confident, compassionate and resilient young people. And with over 55 nationalities at Mougins School, community and diversity go hand in hand.
Why Wellbeing Matters When Choosing a School on the French Riviera
For families relocating to the French Riviera, choosing the right school is about much more than academic results. Parents also want to know that their children will feel safe, supported and happy as they settle into a new country, language and community.
At Mougins School, student wellbeing is woven into every aspect of school life. We spoke with Sarah Michael, the school’s Head of Wellbeing, Conduct and Safeguarding, to find out how this philosophy helps children thrive.
Wellbeing First
A chartered psychologist with extensive experience in counselling and psychological wellbeing, Sarah Michael believes that children learn best when they feel secure and valued.
“At Mougins School, wellbeing isn’t an add-on,” she explains. “Children need to feel safe and happy before they can learn. We create that foundation every day through consistent routines, clear expectations and kindness.”
This philosophy underpins the school’s approach to behaviour, which is built around four core values: respect, learning, integrity and community. Every student benefits from a structured support system, with additional guidance available whenever individual needs arise.
What Is Positive Education?
Mougins School follows the principles of Positive Education, an approach that combines academic excellence with evidence-based wellbeing practices inspired by psychologist Martin Seligman’s PERMA model. The framework focuses on five key elements of flourishing: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishment.
These ideas are integrated into the school’s PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) programme, where students develop emotional awareness, resilience, confidence and empathy alongside their academic studies.
“Our aim is to equip children with healthy habits for life,” says Sarah. “The programme supports them through every stage of their journey, from their earliest years right through to university.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
One of the school’s greatest assets is its natural setting in the hills of Mougins. Surrounded by woodland and featuring a community garden, the campus provides opportunities for outdoor learning, reflection and mindfulness.
Every morning begins with a check-in from form tutors, ensuring each student has a trusted adult to turn to and helping create a strong sense of belonging from the very start of the day.
That sense of trust is something students themselves recognise. As Yulia, a Year 9 student, explains:
“I know I have someone to turn to if I feel down or sad. I know she’ll handle it well and make me feel better about it.”
A Dedicated Wellbeing Team
For parents moving abroad, knowing that specialist support is available can provide valuable peace of mind.
The school’s Health and Wellbeing Centre offers both emotional and physical support. School counsellor Steph Woollacott works with students on emotional wellbeing and mental health awareness, while on-site nurse and Wellbeing Officer Ally Vibert provides day-to-day medical care and health support.
Supporting Every Child to Flourish
Relocating to a new country can be both exciting and challenging for children. A school that prioritises wellbeing can make that transition significantly easier, helping students build friendships, develop confidence and settle quickly into their new environment.
Wellbeing isn’t only about emotional support, it also helps students develop the confidence to embrace new opportunities. Louis, a senior student, reflects:
“The biggest personal impact of being at Mougins School has been my confidence. Through music, playing guitar, performing in concerts and taking on leadership opportunities, I’ve grown enormously.”
Relocating to a new country is one of the biggest transitions a child can experience. It’s about finding a community where children feel secure enough to embrace new experiences, build lasting friendships and discover their potential. By placing wellbeing at the heart of school life, Mougins British International School aims to give every child the confidence not just to settle into a new environment, but to flourish within it.
To find out more and to book a visit, please call 04 93 90 15 47 or click here.
PLEASE NOTE that Mougins School remains open for visits during the summer.
