Apeejay’s IB School welcomes its learners in grand style

The first day of the new academic session at Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park, was transformed into a vibrant celebration as the school hosted a heartwarming Welcome Back to School programme on the morning of July 20, 2026. The campus came alive with excitement, laughter, and eager anticipation, setting an inspiring tone for the year ahead.

From the very entrance, the school radiated warmth and celebration. Colourful balloon installations adorned the pathway, while cheerful Mickey and Minnie Mouse mascots greeted students with smiles, instantly creating an atmosphere of joy and belonging. The thoughtfully designed welcome reflected the school’s commitment to ensuring that every learner felt valued from the very first step onto campus.

The occasion was graced by the presence of Mr Stephen James Tumpane, Principal-cum-Director, Research and Capability Development, Ms Neha Sharma, Vice-principal, Mrs Tumpane, faculty members, and students across the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).

As students arrived, they were personally welcomed by the Principal and Vice-principal, whose warm greetings reinforced the school’s culture of care and community. Instead of beginning the day with formal classroom instruction, students proceeded to the breakfast hall, where they enjoyed a wholesome and nutritious breakfast together. The shared meal symbolised a refreshing start to the academic year, emphasising well-being alongside learning.

The day’s experiences were thoughtfully curated to help students reconnect with friends, build new relationships, and ease into the rhythm of school life. Form tutors welcomed learners into their respective classrooms, where meaningful conversations took precedence over conventional lessons. Students enthusiastically shared stories from their summer holidays, reflected on memorable experiences, and warmly introduced new classmates to the school community.

The sessions were further enlivened with thoughtfully planned icebreakers, including balloon games, collaborative puzzles, and interactive team-building activities that encouraged communication, cooperation, and laughter. These engaging experiences helped learners reconnect with peers, build new friendships, and fostered a strong sense of openness, trust, and belonging from the very first day.

Recognising that every stage of learning requires a unique approach, the school organised age-appropriate engagement activities across different programmes.

The MYP students assembled in the AV Room for an interactive icebreaker, introducing themselves by pairing their names with an adjective that best reflected their personalities. The exercise encouraged confidence, creativity, and self-expression while helping students become better acquainted with one another. This was followed by an engaging art activity titled Express Yourself, where learners translated their thoughts, aspirations, and emotions onto colourful notes through sketches, illustrations, and creative expressions. The activity beautifully captured the diversity of perspectives within the MYP community and highlighted the IB philosophy of nurturing reflective and expressive learners.

Meanwhile, the DP students gathered in the Visual Arts Room for a collaborative hand-printing session. Using vibrant paints and sprays, they created a large collective artwork featuring symbols such as the sun, moon, stars, and representations of their dreams and aspirations. More than an artistic exercise, the mural became a visual celebration of individuality,  collaboration, and the shared journey that lies ahead during their Diploma Programme.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was the address by Mr Tumpane, who welcomed students of the PYP, MYP, and DP to the new academic year with words of encouragement and optimism. Inspiring learners to embrace curiosity, resilience, and purposeful learning, he reminded them that every new beginning presents opportunities for growth and discovery.

“Welcome back, everyone, to the 2026-27 academic year. I’m delighted to see all of you here and excited about everything we have planned for the year ahead.One of the biggest highlights this year is the growth of our school community. We are now close to 200 learners representing 18 different nationalities. This diversity is something we are incredibly proud of, and it enriches our learning environment every single day. As our school continues to grow, so do the opportunities available to you. You’ll see more sporting events, greater participation in activities such as football, basketball, taekwondo and swimming, and many more chances to discover and develop your talents beyond the classroom. I want each one of you to remember that this is your school. I may be here to guide and support you, but you will be the graduates who carry its memories and values with you,” he said.

The more you contribute, the more rewarding your school experience will be, he added. “If you have an idea for a new club, an initiative or an event, I encourage you to step forward. Whether it’s an art club, a fashion club or something entirely new, we’re ready to listen. Leadership begins with taking initiative. Certain expectations come with being part of our community. Attendance at major school events such as Sports Day, the Annual Concert and other significant programmes is non-negotiable. These occasions are about supporting one another, building school spirit and strengthening our sense of belonging.I also ask you to take pride in your appearance,” he stated.

He advised students to follow the school uniform guidelines, maintain appropriate grooming, and ensure that hairstyles, makeup and accessories remain neat and in keeping with the school policy. Looking smart reflects self-respect and respect for our community. Equally important is the way we conduct ourselves every day. Be kind, respectful and responsible. Keep our campus clean, use the recycling stations correctly, and take ownership of your surroundings. As IB learners, you are role models, and I expect you to lead by example through your actions as much as your words. As we begin this new academic year, I encourage you to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Challenge yourselves, support one another, participate wholeheartedly, and make this a year of learning, leadership and lasting memories. I look forward to seeing all that you will achieve together,” he shared.

Adding a delightful touch to the occasion, he personally distributed chocolates to the students, bringing smiles to faces across the auditorium. Taking the centre stage, Ms Sharma said, “Welcome back! It is wonderful to see all of you again. As I walked through your classrooms this morning, I couldn’t help but notice how much you’ve grown. Seeing you step into a new grade fills me with pride, and I look forward to working closely with each one of you this year. I feel on cloud 9! This year, we will continue to raise the bar together. I hope you have received your timetables on Toddle. You’ll also notice new learning spaces, including science laboratories, sports facilities and studios, giving you even more opportunities to learn and explore.

Most importantly, I encourage you to make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Participate in activities that interest you, but also challenge yourself to try something new. As IB learners, being a risk-taker means stepping beyond your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. Whatever goals you set for yourselves this year, give them your very best. When you commit wholeheartedly to doing one thing well, success has a way of inspiring more success. I wish you an exciting, fulfilling, and memorable academic year. Welcome back, and let’s make this our best year yet.”

To preserve memories of this special day, a creatively designed photo booth became a favourite attraction, where students enthusiastically captured photographs with friends and teachers, commemorating the beginning of another exciting chapter in their educational journey.

“I’m very glad to be back, as it’s my first day at school. I went to Udaipur during the holidays and rejuvenated myself. I really missed school, and today I’m finally here. I’m very excited to see what this new academic year has in store, with new opportunities and new experiences waiting ahead.” Diaa Arora, a student of MYP said.

“I just entered DP. Today is my first day, and I’m very excited to see what DP holds for me. I’m also a little nervous, but I really hope this year goes great.” Ada Bharti, a student of DP-1 shared.

The celebrations concluded on an equally joyful note. As students departed, each received a colourful balloon, a simple yet meaningful gesture symbolising hope, happiness, and the limitless possibilities that the new academic year holds. The Welcome Back to School celebration was far more than a ceremonial first day. It reflected Apeejay School International’s unwavering commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also emotional well-being, creativity, collaboration, and a strong sense of community. Filled with warmth, enthusiasm, and meaningful experiences, the day ensured that every IB learner stepped confidently into the new academic year, inspired to explore, grow, and thrive.