‘She has been given many opportunities by this school’

This parent was initially considering enrolling the younger child in the school where her brother was studying. “Then a neighbour whose children attend Apeejay School, Greater Noida, suggested that we visit the school. We met the Principal at the time, and speaking with her gave us confidence. We also noticed that the classes had fewer students. We felt our daughter would receive the attention she needed, especially as she was finding some things difficult then. That has proved to be the case,” shares Jasmeet Kaur, whose daughter, Aaira Goyal, is now in Class I at the school, in a candid interview.

How did she feel about moving to Class I?

She joined the school in Senior KG. She was nervous about moving to Class I because she had heard that the class teacher was strict. She thought she would have to read and study very hard. But she has settled in beautifully. She enjoys going to class and is very happy with her teacher.

What does she tell you about her day at school?

She loves telling us when she has answered a question, expressed an idea or done something well in class. It means a lot to her when her teacher appreciates her. I can see how much those opportunities matter to her.

Which activities does she enjoy?

She enjoys singing and dancing. She has also recited poems, acted in plays and performed in several dances. Recently, she took part in an inter-school folk dance competition at the Noida campus. When she first joined, she used to stammer, and her speech was not very clear. Seeing her take part in stage activities now makes me very happy.

What changes have you noticed in her confidence and learning?

She has become much more confident. She is my second child, and I feel I could not always give her as much time as I gave my elder son. Earlier, she was particularly unsure of her reading. Now she recognises letters confidently and can read words. Her class teacher has helped her a great deal, and I am happy with the progress she has made.

How have her teachers supported her?

When she was in Senior KG, we spoke to her teachers and the principal about her stammer. They arranged special classes for her. The teacher worked with her on vocabulary and speech exercises, which helped her express herself more clearly and confidently. Her present class teacher, Mona ma’am, is also very supportive. She guides the children well, and I feel reassured knowing my daughter is looked after at school.

How does a smaller class size help your daughter?

 With fewer students, a teacher has more time for each child. The teacher can get to know where a child needs help and give them the right attention. I think that has made a difference for my daughter.

What has been the biggest advantage of the school for her?

The opportunities she has received. Along with classroom and stage activities, she has been able to choose a sport and has taken up skating. As working parents, we do not always have time to take her to classes outside of school. I am glad she can learn skating there.