‘Become a good person at first, achievements can wait’

Choosing the right school is like choosing the right ladder of success for your child’s career. Spending eight hours in the same building day after day should not be forced, rather it should be intriguing for a child. Gone are those days when school meant just learning the events in a history class, it has now become a stepping stone to becoming accomplished with that knowledge.

One such school is Apeejay School, Saket, and therefore for a father like Ashok Kumar, whose son, Shaurya Kanthwal, a student of class XI chose this school organically.

In a candid interview, he talks about how drastically his son has improved since joining this school in class IX.

Excerpts from the interview:

What made you choose this school?

Apeejay has been at the core when it comes to education aspects. It has built its innate reputation with a legacy of more than 50 years. When we came back from Singapore and were looking for a school, we heard good things about this school. Moreover, Apeejay School was quite near to where we were living. It was like the icing on the cake for us when Shaurya enrolled in this school.

What are your child’s favourite subjects?

Shaurya is an exceptionally intelligent and bright child. His major interest lies in resolving mathematical equations. He is an athlete as well and has actively participated in the school’s football team. He practices the same at home too.

Difference in Singapore’s education system as compared to India?

The education system of Singapore and India is quite different. In Singapore, it’s more practical learning. It would have been very difficult for Shaurya to manage India’s education system as he was born and raised in Singapore. But with the help of exceptional teachers and the faculty of Apeejay School and by God’s grace, he is doing well in the class.

Mention ways of encouraging him to study at home.

Since he is in senior secondary school, I don’t have to force him to study. He knows his duties and is responsible for his timetable. Most parents think the child is grown up and doesn’t require parental intervention. But I feel, it’s important to monitor your child’s academic growth from time to time. The best way to monitor his studies is through the feedback we get from the school via PTMs.

Are there any specific strategies you think the school uses to help your child develop good study habits?

There is not any specific strategy but overall Apeejay is a great school. From my end, the response shall be positive itself as the teachers here are very supportive. The way this school ensures the holistic development of the child is the most remarkable aspect.

What’s your parenting mantra?

I always teach my son to be a good person. Marks and achievements are secondary.