Parents engage with school values at orientation session

Recently, Apeejay School, Noida, organised an orientation programme for parents of newly admitted students at the school auditorium. The session brought together families from Bal Vatika I to Class XII and aimed to familiarise them with the school’s values, systems, and expectations. It also created space for meaningful dialogue between the school and its stakeholders at the start of the academic session.

The programme began with registration and tea in the foyer, allowing parents to interact informally. The event was graced by an esteemed Guest Speaker, Swami Shantatmananda, Head of the Ramakrishna Mission, Delhi, and a member of the NITI Aayog. He was given a heartfelt welcome by Dr Neha Sharma, Director-Principal, Apeejay School, Noida, and accorded a green welcome.

This was followed by an orchestral performance by students, setting a composed and welcoming tone for the day. The gathering then moved into a formal opening, where the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the chanting of Saraswati Vandana marked the beginning of the session.

Taking the stage, Dr Sharma welcomed the parents and spoke about the importance of building a shared understanding between the school and families. She highlighted the role of open communication and mutual trust in supporting a child’s growth. Her address focused on the idea that education extends beyond academics and requires collaboration between all stakeholders.

The parents were apprised about the dynamic leadership of Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group; Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University; and Chairman, Apeejay Education; and Dr Neha Berlia, Co-Owner and Director (Family Business Board), Apeejay Stya and Svran Group; Lead-Education Vertical, Office Bearer, Apeejay Education; Member of the Apeejay Stya and Svran Group; and Pro-Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University, under whose able guidance the institution has been scaling new heights.

The Vice-principals, Mrs Amrita Hajela and Mrs Puneeta Bhasin, presented an overview of the school’s functioning. They spoke about the institution’s academic practices, co-curricular opportunities, and ongoing efforts to ensure balanced development. Parents were also given a virtual tour of the campus, which introduced them to the infrastructure, learning spaces, and facilities available to students.

The session also included a demonstration of the Moodle platform and the parent app, helping parents understand how they can stay connected with their child’s progress and school updates.

After Swami Shantatmananda was felicitated by Dr Sharma, he held an interactive and engaging session for the parents. He stressed that the manifestation of education creates a level playing field for every child. He emphasised that each child is unique, and every effort must be made to build a meaningful connection between students, teachers, and the school. He encouraged children to look within themselves to discover answers and develop self-awareness.

He highlighted the crucial role of the teachers in a child’s growth and development. He also noted that for parents, acceptance and reflection are essential to truly understand and support their child.

Swami Shantatmananda interacted with the parents and effectively answered their queries. His insightful discussion resonated with parents and educators, addressing challenges and strategies for development of the children.

Adding a student perspective, a group presentation highlighted the school’s achievements across academic and co-curricular areas. This helped parents see the learning environment through the experiences of students themselves.

Looking ahead

The programme concluded with parents and staff continuing conversations in an informal setting. The session offered clarity, reassurance, and a sense of direction for the year ahead.

What stood out was the emphasis on partnership. The orientation was not just about introducing systems but about building a relationship that supports each child’s journey in a thoughtful and consistent way.