‘Pre-primary teachers in this school blend Montessori method with formal teaching’

Abhishek Parasher, who is a business analyst at Amdocs, an IT company, wanted to pick one of the best schools for his son Vaahin. He and his wife Sakshi, who works as a consultant at KPMG, enrolled their son in Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, in nursery school last year. In an interview, the father tells us about his overall experience with the school.

Excerpts:

What were your criteria for choosing a school for Vaahin and why did you pick Apeejay?

Every parent wants their child to study in one of the top schools. So, we were definitely looking for an institute that was reputed. Some of my friends’ children also did their schooling at Apeejay, so I had known how well they groomed students. I am also acquainted with some of the teachers in the school and they gave me very good feedback. Besides, the school is very close to my house.

What do you have to say about the way Vaahin’s teachers conduct classes?

When it comes to pre-primary education, what matters the most is the way teachers interact or engage with the students. At Apeejay Panchsheel Park, Vaahin’s teachers successfully blend the Montessori method with formal teaching. From storytelling to recitation, several interesting activities are conducted regularly in the class to develop students’ interests. Vaahin has gained a lot and quite quickly from all these.

The teachers also share regular updates about class activities on a shared web portal. They also attach photos of the class notebooks and tell us how to guide our children at home. They have been very helpful.  

Can you elaborate on the developments you have seen in your son?

Vaahin has always gelled in very easily. He was singing and dancing at home in front of all the family members, but I was concerned if he would be able to do the same on the stage before a large audience. His teachers have successfully helped him overcome his stage fright by making him participate in various activities. Vaahin does not hesitate any longer to showcase his talent; in fact, he is enthusiastic each time he has to participate in some activity. His public speaking skills have improved too.

Were you anxious about sending your child to school after the Covid pandemic?

My brother and his wife are doctors, so as far as the pandemic is concerned, we did not worry so much but took the necessary precautions. But we did not want our son to be worried or scared so we did not impose too many restrictions on him.

Having said that, Apeejay followed all the safety guidelines in the wake of the Covid scare. They instructed parents to send hand sanitisers and masks.

What was your first interaction with the school staff like?

I had a pleasant conversation with the teacher in charge. She shared all the required details with me. I was given a tour of the classrooms, washrooms, and other facilities. I was assured that my child would be in safe hands and indeed I have been very happy with the school.