Back-to-School Pressure Rising in the UAE as Experts Highlight Need for Confidence and Resilience in Children

As thousands of children across the UAE prepare for the new academic year, the Warrior Academy is highlighting that students are returning to class carrying more than just books.

Beyond school supplies, many young people are facing hidden pressures, including worries about friendships, academic performance, and self-image – challenges that can affect their wellbeing, academic results and long-term confidence.

Recent global research (Kids Mental Health Foundation and Ipsos, August 2025) found that nearly a third of children avoiding school due to anxiety missed more than a week of classes, citing bullying, public speaking and exams as major concerns. Locally, studies show (19 August 2025 from Lumii.ae) reports that UAE students are increasingly struggling with low mood, disrupted sleep and self-esteem issues, with these challenges regularly flagged through wellbeing monitoring in schools.

The Warrior Academy’s own research in the UAE highlights parents’ emphasis on character development to support their children’s development. Its survey revealed that 61% of parents believe confidence is the most important trait for their children, followed by concentration (28%) and resilience (36%). Its programme data further shows measurable improvements: children completing its research-backed Confidence Accelerator Programme experienced an 82% rise in confidence, a 23% increase in exam performance, and 100% of parents reporting better focus.

Sebastian Bates, Founder of the Warrior Academy, explained:

“School is one of the most important places where children discover who they are and what they are capable of. But after a long summer break, it’s natural that children may be feeling nervous about going back to the classroom again - especially if they’re transitioning to new schools.  They’re carrying questions about whether they’ll fit in, whether they’re good enough and whether they’ll be liked by their peers. Confidence, focus and resilience are the tools that lighten that load, and the important thing is that these are character traits that can be taught - so children feel ready for the year ahead.”

The Warrior Academy highlights that character development can be fostered through structured steps that parents and educators can encourage:

• Confidence – creating safe opportunities for children to speak up, make mistakes and take on new challenges.

  
  

• Focus – supporting concentration through routines, reducing distractions, and setting achievable goals.

  
  

• Resilience – teaching children how to respond positively to setbacks, handle disappointment, and problem-solve under pressure.

“My own experience at school taught me that setbacks and challenges are inevitable,” Bates added. “It was through navigating my own struggles that I developed the Warrior Method. I wanted to create a way for children to learn how to turn obstacles into opportunities, to develop character, and to step into life with courage and resilience. That’s what drives everything we do at the Warrior Academy.”

By emphasising character alongside academics, children are better equipped not only to thrive in school, but also to build the inner strength needed to face life’s challenges beyond the classroom.