‘Activity-based learning at Apeejay Kharghar helps children think outside their books’

Chartered accountant Radhalakshmi Ramani’s children Sanvi V Vedam and Akshaysriram V Vedam study in class 4 and class 1 respectively in Apeejay School, Kharghar. Their father Venkataprasad Vedam is the Business Head in MEG in Reliance Industries Limited. From public speaking to technology, the school has been successfully teaching the children various skills beyond their books, says the mother-of-two. In an interview, she talks about how Apeejay has promoted her children’s holistic development. Edited excerpts:

What made you pick Apeejay School, Kharghar, for your child?

Both my children took admission in the school, in nursery. A friend’s child was studying in the school, and we received great feedback from them. We came to know that the school not only focuses on academics but children’s overall development. Co-curricular activities are given equal importance.

How is the school preparing young children for the future?

Right from nursery, children are encouraged to learn public speaking. Besides learning, it is also important to know how to present your knowledge with confidence. We believe that to be the key to success. Apeejay Kharghar is giving my children good opportunities. Every month, they are given a topic to speak on or do some activities around it, which are good practices. We were very happy with Sanvi’s progress and decided to enroll Akshay as well. In class 1, my son has already been introduced to the concept of gravity.

What is your opinion about Apeejay’s activity-based learning?

This is what encourages kids to learn; they do not feel like they are being bombarded with new concepts. Doing it and then learning it is what helps children think outside their books. Activity-based learning will ensure they remember what they learn for a lifetime.

Are you satisfied with the online classes?

Apeejay adapted to online learning very quickly. The approach was new for all of us initially. Kudos to the teachers for making so much effort to make the classes successful! Parents have been giving their feedback, which is welcomed and also implemented. Sanvi can now manage the online classes and her assignments on her own. My son is also learning how to handle technology, and that is all because of the encouragement from teachers. They further ask parents and students to call them, even after class hours, to clear doubts. Computer is one subject which has generated a lot of interest in the kids. Now that each of them is handling a gadget on a daily basis, they are learning faster.

Apart from modern learning, is the school making efforts to ensure children stay in touch with their roots?

Yes, children are given opportunities to dress up or prepare something about the state or region they belong to. They celebrate various festivals and also make presentations in the class, through which learning takes place.

Is the school also able to foster children’s overall personality development?

Apeejay’s values-based learning ensures children develop into individuals who possess the right values and character. The aim is to help them grow up to be responsible citizens in the future.