International school in Israel develops specialised trauma‑support programme
Ono College initiative is blueprint for other educational establishments
For more than 30 years, Ono International School in Israel, part of part of Ono Academic College, has combined academic leadership with career-oriented education, an integrated English-Hebrew curriculum, and comprehensive academic and personal support.
Its new Safe Studios trauma‑support programme was created in response to the emotional and psychological impact of the Israel–Hamas war. Safe Studios provides therapeutic spaces where students can process trauma through art, movement, storytelling and guided reflection. The programme, facilitated by trained professionals from Ono’s renowned Art Therapy and Psychology departments, has become a model for trauma‑informed support in higher education.
Safe Studios is built on the understanding that international students and new immigrants often lack extended family networks in Israel, making campus‑based emotional support especially critical. Through workshops, open studios and peer‑support circles, the initiative fosters resilience, community connection and a sense of safety during times of national stress.
Located in Kiryat Ono, the school was established to serve international students, new immigrants, and English‑speaking Israelis seeking high‑quality academic programs delivered in a multicultural setting. Its mission blends academic excellence with a strong commitment to social responsibility, inclusion, and community resilience. The result is a learning environment combining academic study with practical training where students are challenged intellectually, supported personally, and prepared professionally.
English-taught and hybrid English-Hebrew programs allow students to begin their studies in English while gradually acquiring Hebrew skills and integrating into Israeli academic life and culture while being part of a dynamic campus community. Students graduate ready to enter global job markets.
A focus on diversity means that students come from North America, Europe, Africa and across the Middle East, creating a vibrant campus culture. The school provides dedicated support for new immigrants (olim), including Hebrew language instruction and academic bridging courses so students can integrate into Israeli society.
Ono’s multilingual academic tracks have recently expanded, allowing students to study in English while gradually integrating Hebrew coursework. This flexible model supports both international students and Israelis returning from abroad. The school has also strengthened partnerships with global institutions, including collaborative programmes in business innovation, digital transformation, and visual art therapy.
New student‑experience initiatives at the college include leadership and entrepreneurship programmes as well as community‑service projects that connect students with local municipalities and NGOs. These reflect Ono’s long‑standing belief that academic learning should be tied to real‑world impact.
ono.ac.il
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