‘IB curriculum has fostered my daughter’s deep, free-learning approach’

The emphasis on choosing the right school in India stems from the belief that education is the cornerstone for success in life. A good school can provide a solid foundation in academics, extracurricular, and personal development, setting students up for future academic and professional achievements. The competitive nature of entrance exams for higher education institutions in India further amplifies the importance of receiving quality schooling from an early age.

There are multiple Boards of education Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE), state Boards, and international Boards like International Baccalaureate (IB) and The International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE). Parents choose a Board that aligns with their educational values, the child’s learning style, and future academic plans.

Meet one such parent, Neha Lobo whose daughter Nia, is a student of DP-I at Apeejay School International (ASI), Panchsheel Park. In a candid interview, the mother talks about how the school helps students cope with the rigorous IB curriculum among other things.

How and why did you choose ASI?

We chose ASI because we were shifting from Bengaluru to Delhi. Back then, our daughter who was in class VIII was studying at an IGCSE school. When we shifted, we were looking for an IGCSE option in Delhi but found limited choices, so we opted for an IB school. ASI stood out due to its longstanding reputation, the convenient distance from our home, and the positive first impressions we had from meetings with the educators, including the principal.

What has changed in parents’ preferences for school proximity over the years?

The change in preference for school proximity is due to worsened traffic conditions, making travel times much longer compared to the past. Additionally, the competitive nature of education has intensified, leading parents to prioritise proximity to ensure more efficient use of their children’s time. When we were in school, the travel time was less due to less traffic. Today, if a student spends more than 30 minutes commuting when will he/she study?

How does the school support students in coping with the rigorous IB curriculum?

The school provides comprehensive support for every student’s educational success, which is important for working parents like us. The favourable teacher-student ratio ensures personalised attention, making us feel that our daughter is in safe hands because the school is completely involved in every child’s education and success. This is a plus point for me with this school.

My daughter gets equal if not more attention, in terms of what each child needs. This is a blessing in disguise for having chosen this school.

Can you share a milestone achieved by your daughter at the school?

A significant milestone for us is seeing our daughter express herself to her full potential, shaping her into a well-rounded individual. This development is a testament to the nurturing environment provided by the school during critical periods of her growth. The school has been rock-solid support when it comes to shaping Nia in terms of being an individual. She joined the school at a critical period of her life – from class VIII to X and is now in class XI. This time spent at ASI has been a good ride for us. The mental safety she has here is very nice as well.

How does the school encourage participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities?

The school and its teachers provide ample opportunities for students to engage in activities beyond the curriculum, fostering a supportive environment that caters to the interests and talents of the students. If she shows interest and can deliver on the same, the teachers are always there to support her. No day goes by when the teachers don’t ask her to be involved in activities outside of the curriculum.

What are your thoughts on the teachers and staff at the school?

The teachers and staff are dedicated and nurturing, offering students the space to be themselves without fear of reprimand. This approach fosters a respectful and affectionate environment, encouraging independence and self-respect among students. The teachers give space to the child to be himself or herself. The school doesn’t believe in reprimanding the students all the time. This is a school where everyone is treated like an adult. In the end, the teachers respect the child and the child respects them in turn.

How has the IB curriculum benefited your daughter specifically?

The IB curriculum has allowed my daughter to approach education with freedom and depth, preparing her for advanced academic and life challenges. It encourages critical thinking, creativity, and independence, significantly impacting her development and perspective.

What overall impact has the school had on your daughter’s development?

The school’s holistic approach to education, including its emphasis on individual growth, critical thinking, and co-curricular activities, has been instrumental in my daughter’s development into an independent and thoughtful individual. The affordability, location, and quality of education at ASI have made it the ideal choice for our family.