Bagless Day brings practical learning to Classes III to V

A day without schoolbags gave students of Classes III to V at Apeejay School, Noida, time to practise skills they can use beyond the classroom. The school’s Bagless Day, Skills for Life: Learn, Make, Do, brought together art and craft, home management, gardening, first aid and food preparation. Children learnt by trying each task for themselves.

Making and organising

In the Art and Craft and Upcycling segment, students made items suited to their grade levels. Class III created foldable paper desk planners to keep track of daily tasks. Class IV designed multi-pocket paper organisers for stationery and study materials. Class V made hanging organisers for jewellery and accessories using paper sheets and decorative materials.

The Home Management session turned into a task that children can practise at home. Students learnt the correct way to fold a T-shirt and a handkerchief. It was an exercise in neatness and taking responsibility for their belongings.

Learning through practice

In Little Green Thumbs, students explored soil preparation, seed sowing, planting and plant care. They also observed how plants are grown and looked after. The Nursing and First Aid session took place in the auditorium, where demonstrations and role-plays helped children learn to apply basic bandages, check temperature and pulse, and respond to minor injuries.

For Cooking Without Fire, students worked together to prepare crunchy aloo chaat. They used boiled potatoes, nachos, onions, tomatoes, lemon juice, and chaat masala. The activity also covered basic food preparation and hygiene.

All the activities followed scheduled time slots, with students taking an active part. Folding clothes, caring for plants and preparing a snack gave them opportunities to use what they had learnt straight away. Throughout the day, they also practised working together and doing things independently, while gaining respect for practical work.