Interviews
‘My son has become more confident and articulate’
The father whose son studies at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park says he chose this school for his son as it is his alma mater
We all know that the school environment plays a significant role in a child’s development. The right school provides a positive and supportive atmosphere, fostering a love for learning and personal growth. A good school offers a balanced mix of academics and extracurricular activities. This helps in the holistic development of a child by encouraging them to explore their interests and talents beyond the classroom.
Adequate infrastructure, including well-equipped classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities, contributes to a conducive learning environment. Choosing a school with proper facilities ensures that your child has access to the resources needed for a well-rounded education.
But above all this is the parents’ experience – being an alumnus of the school makes it easy for the parent to make an informed decision. And one parent is Akshay Bansal whose son Neil is studying in the nursery at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park.
In a candid interview, the father talks about the positive changes in his son since he started formal education.
Why did you choose this school for your son?
Besides the fact that the school enjoys a good reputation and has a legacy of more than five decades, I am an alumnus of Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park. I passed out of this school in 2007.
How has the school changed from your time as a student to now, with your son attending?
The school feels more professional now compared to the homely atmosphere it had during my time as a student. What has not changed is that the emphasis on values over rote learning has remained consistent. It was more about values than memorisation.
As a parent revisiting your school, does it feel different, and do you have any nostalgic moments?
I get nostalgic. There have been so many changes. However, the auditorium and swimming pool are the only things that remain unchanged. I do recall fond memories of clubs like the Rocket Science Club and the Force Club during my school days. I recently saw in a newsletter, possibly on Facebook, that the Force Club is still operational. This is heartening to know.
How has your son progressed since joining?
He has started reading sentences, 3 and 4-letter words. He has also started to speak in English which is a plus for our family. Neil’s great-grandparents are still around and they speak only in Hindi. The fact that my son can interact in English is good.
How are the teachers, and do you regularly communicate with them?
We are in touch with the teachers, especially during online classes, and they pay attention to each student individually. They focus on understanding concepts rather than assigning excessive homework.
How is your son doing since he joined school?
He’s doing well. Although I don’t interact with him as much as his mother does, I’ve noticed he’s become more confident and articulate.
What is your parenting mantra, and how does it differ from what your parents taught you?
In today’s times, I focus on allowing my child to explore various fields, and try different sports, activities, and instruments to discover his interests. It’s about practical aspects and holistic development.
Is your son interested in extracurricular activities at the school?
Yes, he actively participates in various extracurricular activities at the school and elsewhere, showing a keen interest in exploring different fields.
How do you perceive the shift in emphasis from academic excellence to overall development?
Over the years, the mindset has changed, acknowledging that purely focusing on academics may not be sufficient in the long run. Holistic development, including sports and other activities, is recognized as valuable for success in the corporate world and beyond. Understanding what one is doing matters more than achieving high academic scores.
