‘Inquiry-based learning supports my child’s growth’

Mr Vineet Panjabi, Head of Business at Quintype Technologies and Ms Shivani Panjabi, Senior Practice Manager (Global Projects), Boston Consulting Group (BCG) speak highly of Apeejay School International – South Delhi (ASI). Their reason? It is simple. Their son, Viraj, is doing well in the institution.

Sharing more, Ms Panjabi says, “Viraj is enrolled in Primary-Years-Programme – III. He loves Science and video games. He is also passionate about animal welfare. Every day, without fail, he feeds and checks up on the animals near our residence. He is growing to be very compassionate and responsible.” In the following interview, the mother of two discusses more. Read on. Edited excerpts.   

How and when did you choose ASI for Viraj?

It was around August last year when Viraj was enrolled at ASI. The decision stemmed from the fact that Viraj wasn’t happy with the school and curriculum he was part of, prior to this. In due course, my husband and I realised that he has an inquiry-based mindset. He is a thinker and wants to chart his own path of discovery, which is a great thing! As parents, we wanted to encourage this spirit. So, we thought of checking out different curricula that support his growth and development.

After a lot of research, we found the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum suitable for him. After this, we looked up many schools across Delhi. Fortunately, we found ASI which is also Delhi’s First IB Continuum World School. And, Apeejay turned out to be our top choice and we went ahead with it. Moreover, my husband is an alumnus of Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park. In fact, he studied with the Apeejay family! So, it almost felt like home.  

Please tell us more about your first visit to the school campus.

As the CBSE and IB schools are situated on the same campus, my husband was delighted to re-visit his school. Of course, there have been many developmental changes since he saw it last. But he was elated to be there.

As far as the IB school is concerned, the atmosphere was really good. The educators were on-point and the administrative staff was cordial. For me, a crucial observation was everyone had smiles on their faces. So, I felt that this small thing made a big difference. Further, we had an in-depth discussion about the curriculum with the teaching staff. They assured us that we can take the plunge. So, we took Viraj out of his previous school mid-year and enrolled him at Apeejay.

Any features of the school that stood out for you?

In terms of the infrastructure, undoubtedly, the school is top-notch. With this, it has a very warm and welcoming culture. As a parent, one can walk-in and have a conversation easily. The Principal too is quite approachable. It just feels great! Whenever I visit the institution, I feel no reluctance in striking a conversation with anyone. The best thing? Everyone in the school knows a student by name. That is just fantastic!

I even recall a specific incident when I was in the school to pick up Viraj. At that time, he was relatively new there. But, the art teacher came up to me and began asking some questions about his artworks. That hit me later! I realised how all of his teachers are so deeply interested in knowing more about him, what he does, how he thinks etc. More than the scores, their focus is overall growth and development.

Any developmental milestones you would like to share?

A big change in Viraj, now, he loves to be part of all the school-based events. He looks forward to them. Also, there has been a massive change in his personality, he has become quite self-driven. I often see him making PowerPoints, doing research, projects etc. and I feel that he is not just learning academically but also equipping himself with life skills which will help in the future.

Moreover, his stage fear has gone. That’s another big one! He is very confident to deliver a speech, perform a role in a play, and much more. He enacted ‘Ramayana’ in the school where he became King Janaka and he totally aced it! His confidence, accountability and integrity have grown manifold.

How is the environment at home?

We have two kids and hope to inculcate independence in them. Viraj follows his curiosities, engages in reading and researches on his own at home. After him, we have decided to enroll his younger sister at ASI too. She will be starting her academic session this July. We are looking forward to it!

Would you recommend the school to others?

Most definitely!