‘Teachers helped her to speak confidently despite speech issues’

Schools aren’t just a space to learn skills, but they are also where students learn to defeat their fear. Today, we have a parent with us who saw her introverted child who struggled with speech as a young learner, grow into a confident debater on national platforms. In a conversation with Sulakshna Mukherjee, mother of Aadrija (now in Class 8), we discuss the Apeejay School, Nerul’s academic philosophy, its approach to extracurriculars, and the journey since her daughter joined the School in Junior KG.

What were your expectations before you admitted your child to the school?

I heard a great deal about Apeejay School in Navi Mumbai. So word of mouth carries real weight when you’re choosing a school. What struck me from the very first interaction — even the rigorous admissions process itself — was the school’s clear commitment to excellence. 

I remember the admission form specifically asked how parents intended to contribute to their child’s development, which gave the impression that the school focused not just on enrollment but on the child’s holistic development. That’s what appealed to me, and I’m genuinely glad we made that choice.

How would you describe the teaching pattern and activities conducted in Apeejay School, Nerul?

The school is entirely focused on conceptual understanding. I can see it directly in how my daughter has grown. She constantly questions why. She asks me, ‘Why is a maths problem solved a certain way? Why does a science concept work the way it does?’ 

I believe her teachers instilled this through the kind of questions posed even in exams, which push students beyond simply memorising textbook answers. That depth of understanding has stayed with her. 

Did you ever need coaching for your daughter as extra support?

She’s never needed coaching to understand her subjects. Topics are taught in a way that helps students understand concepts. They don’t cram answers.  She’s never needed tuition for SST, English, or several other subjects, which says a lot about how well the concepts are taught the first time around.

What about extracurricular activities — theme-based assemblies, excursions?

My daughter had some speech-related challenges when she joined Junior KG, and what struck me was how seriously the school took extracurricular development from that very first year. Her class teacher at the time took special interest and encouraged consistent practice, even suggesting speech therapy to help her along. 

Aadrija stuck with it, and from Class 2 onward, she began winning prizes in elocution and debate. Today, she’s an active participant in Model United Nations conferences, debating confidently on stage. That platform and consistent guidance from the school is something I genuinely credit for her growth, both personally and academically.

How do you feel about safety, security, and infrastructure at the school — including staff interactions and facilities?

Safety has honestly never been a concern for me. My daughter has never come back with anything troubling to report. I’ve noticed how attentive the teachers and staff are in looking out for the children. On infrastructure, the school has evolved a great deal over the last couple of years — the classrooms are well-ventilated, and there’s been structural improvement.