‘I chose this school for its belief in the holistic development of the students’

Choosing the right school for your child in India is an important decision since it shapes their future in numerous ways. A good school can provide your child with a strong academic foundation, help them develop their talents and interests, and prepare them for success in higher education and the workforce.

Parents are aware that a good school will have a rigorous academic programme that challenges students and helps them reach their full potential. The school should also have qualified and experienced teachers who are passionate about teaching. They also know that a good school will not only focus on academics but also the overall development of the child. This includes providing opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities, develop their social and emotional skills, and learn about different cultures and perspectives.

Meet Hemant Kumar, father of a student at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park. In a candid interview, he talks about why he chose this school for his son – Vrishaankk, who is now in class X.

How and why did you choose this branch of Apeejay?

There were several reasons. First, a few children of my bosses were studying at Apeejay School – different branches. Second, I studied at Manava Bharati India International School. And for some reason, I developed a fascination for Apeejay Schools. This was despite that other schools were the talk of the town. I saw that a lot of Apeejayites had reached top positions including government jobs like me.

Even though I applied to several schools, I was confident that my son would get through to this branch.

How is he doing in school? And how are his teachers?

He is doing great in his class. I would have to say that each of his teachers right from the nursery have been great. I have the utmost regard for all the teachers. When my son was in classes I and II, his teachers were excellent. Then in classes VIII-IX, the teachers were just as good. We are lucky that he has had good educators all through. His teachers in class X are just as good.

Since the time my son joined the school, all the teachers have been extremely supportive, understanding, and fantastic. I can’t recall the name of a single teacher who was not good.

What has your son decided to pursue?

While his interest lies in Science, we come from a family of bureaucrats. From the 1984 to 2018 batch, our family had IAS, IFS, and IPS officers. This has somewhat fueled his desire to sit for the Civil Services exam. But it is up to him what he wants to pursue.

Does he participate in extracurricular activities?

He has been part of several activities. He was in dramatics and Casio playing. He has performed at annual functions. He loves basketball and plays chess as well.

Apeejay Schools strive for holistic development. Would you agree?

I would rate this school 20/10. I still remember the words of my senior, whose daughter was in one of the branches of the school. He said: ‘Apeejay Schools believe in ensuring that each student participates in activities; they believe in holistic development’. This was one of the biggest factors that motivated me to put my son in Apeejay.

Do you remember your first impression of Apeejay?

I remember it as if it took place yesterday. When I visited the campus, I was thrilled. I told my uncle with whom I had gone to fill out the admission form that my son would study here. I was that confident.

Do you recommend this school to others?

All the time. Over the years, there have been so many schools that were on the top but the social fabric at these is very different from what Apeejay Schools teaches its students. I am a government servant and if for instance, tomorrow my son wants to go to school in an Audi, I can’t provide him with that.  What I love about Apeejay is it keeps its students grounded.