TalesOfTradition: ‘This school is a home away from home’

He is currently working with a multinational logistics and supply chain company and has been associated with the organisation for over five years. The most important lesson he learnt at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, was discipline. A child enters school like raw clay, and teachers gradually shape the child’s personality. The routines and time-management skills he learnt at school continue to help him meet His professional commitments.

Meet Aditya Kumar Singh, whose son, Nihansh, is also studying here in Class I.

Which school values have stayed with you?

The school taught me to treat my teachers, peers and elders with respect and courtesy. These values have helped me build healthy relationships with my colleagues and others in my professional circle. Studying difficult subjects and appearing for competitive examinations taught me perseverance. I experienced both success and setbacks, and each experience made me more resilient. Even today, these lessons help me handle difficult situations professionally.

Which school memories do you cherish most?

I was interested in general knowledge and participated in several quiz competitions. I frequently ranked among the top three participants and received many certificates of appreciation. These remain some of my fondest memories. I was also an active sportsperson and represented the school at the zonal level in cricket and volleyball.

How did it feel to return to Apeejay School as a parent?

It was an entirely different and deeply nostalgic experience. When I visited during my son’s admission process, I noticed that the school had changed considerably. The canteen and auditorium were among the few places that still looked familiar, while much of the school had been transformed. I had the opportunity to meet my nursery class teacher after nearly 35 years. What made the return special was that she became my son’s first class teacher, too. This connection will always remain very special to me.

Why did you choose Apeejay for your son?

My experience as a student was the primary reason. I had the privilege of learning from some exceptional teachers. I was confident that my son would also receive a good education and the right guidance at this school. Meeting my teachers again strengthened my belief in the school. I knew my son would feel comfortable and be well cared for. It reassured me that I had made the right choice.

How would you describe this school?

It is a home away from home. Children never feel separated from their families while they are at school. Whether they spend a few hours in the pre-primary section or an entire day in the higher classes, they are surrounded by teachers who care for them like parents.

 Is there a particular incident that reflects this support?

I remember having a zonal cricket match just before an economics exam in Class XII. Economics had always been one of my strongest subjects, but I could not prepare properly and failed the paper. Instead of discouraging me, my teacher reminded me that I had the potential to bounce back. She understood that the match had also been important to me. Her words motivated me, and I performed exceptionally well in the subject the following term.