‘Education & values were my priority, and this school succeeds in both’ 

For Priyanka Atul Shelar, choosing a school for her daughter Aaradhya wasn’t simply about academic reputation. It was also about finding an environment that would nurture the kind of person Aaradhya would grow into. In a candid interview, the mother talks about the decision and how nearly five years at Apeejay School, Nerul have played out since.

How has your experience been so far?

I am very happy. I have to particularly credit the teachers during COVID-19. The teachers were truly outstanding. They built such a strong foundation. My daughter is genuinely happy with the school and its curriculum, and the teachers are qualified, experienced, and supportive.

Why did you choose the school in the first place?

I come from an educational background myself, and during a career break, I worked at a tutorial centre. Over there, I interacted with students from various schools and found Apeejay School to stand out. That experience taught me how much the surrounding environment and peer circle genuinely matter for a child.

As a Maharashtrian family with strong cultural values, I wanted a school environment that would help Aaradhya stay connected to those roots, since children spend so much of their time with teachers and peers at school. I found the behaviour and approach here genuinely impressive. I had also heard positive things about the school. For us, values and personality development came first; academics, while important, were always the secondary priority.

Are the school’s teaching materials and methods updated with trends like AI and technology?

I think having strong basics is essential. Children need to understand fundamental concepts clearly before moving to anything more advanced. I have found the school’s curriculum to be largely on par, even if exam patterns differ slightly. Conceptually, I think the teaching is good and up to the mark.

In the age of social media, how does the school manage discipline?

I believe discipline really starts at home, within the family. Schools can only build on that foundation. That said, the school does take discipline seriously, and I’d say they manage it well. I have also appreciated that teachers are approachable and personally reached out to a few with feedback, and they’ve been receptive.

How do you feel about safety and security on campus, including during sports activities?

Very secure, in my personal experience. I have observed the sports teachers, including the Sports Guru staff, and they are consistently polite and caring in how they handle every child. I have no concerns on that front. It’s genuinely reassuring as a parent.