TalesOfTradition: ‘The teachers may have changed, but school’s essence remains the same’

She is, at present, working as an HR consultant. Having studied at Apeejay School, Noida, from the nursery to Class XII, she chose the same school for her daughter, Harleen, who has also been studying here since the nursery (now in Class VII).

“I spent 14 years at this school, and the bonds I formed here have always stayed with me. Even today, when I go to school, I still feel the same way. When I step through those gates, the teachers may have changed, but the essence of the school is still there. I wanted the same for my daughter,” Manka Dhamija shares in a candid interview, among other things.

What values did you imbibe from the school?

Values come from home, of course, but children spend so much of their time in school. They learn a lot from their teachers, from daily activities, and from small things like caring for each other and being there for each other. It is the warmth and the foundation that Apeejay School builds for you. My foundation has been very solid, both academically and as a person. That is what Apeejay Schools gives you — character and personality.

What are some of the things that have changed from your time at the school?

I feel the school has evolved with the times while maintaining the same warmth. During our time, there were fewer activities, but now there is a lot more focus on grooming activities, fireless cooking, life skills and other areas that are important for children today. There is a strong focus on personality development, some counselling support, and there is absolutely no bullying of that sort in school. The teachers are very supportive and are always there to encourage the children.

How has the school carried forward the same values and culture?

The school has managed to retain the same values and culture. There is 100 per cent participation; every child gets a chance to come on stage, perform and take on responsibilities. Harleen has been a Prefect for the last three years, back-to-back. This year, she became the Class Representative because her class teacher wanted her to take on that role.

The school gives students opportunities to groom themselves, get exposure and step forward. That is how I felt about it, and that is how Harleen feels about it, too.

How has Harleen’s experience been in terms of academics and personal growth?

Till Class V, Harleen was very happy. She was growing up really well, and we could see many positive changes in her personality. The Primary Wing is truly amazing. Class VI was slightly tough because she moved into a different section. She did not really bond with the new children immediately. But the teachers heard us, supported us and helped us work through the problems whenever I discussed them. Now that she is in Class VII, things have settled down, and she is doing well.

When you compare your time with Harleen’s, what is the school doing better now?

The school is doing better in terms of emotional well-being, which is very important today. With so much focus on mental health now, this kind of support matters a lot. During our time, it was not given as much importance. It is focusing more on co-curricular activities, leadership skills and bringing out the leader in every child. Along with academics, there is also a strong focus on personality development.