‘The interesting classroom activities at Apeejay schools make it very easy for young children to learn’

Dr Sanat Kumar Sahu and Neelima Sahu’s association with Apeejay Saket began a few years back when they enrolled their son Swastik in the school, in nursery. Now in class 6, Swastik has not only proved his talent academically but has also been able to explore his interest in music and art, among other fields. Last year, the parents got their younger daughter Shreyasi admitted to the school as well; she is now in kindergarten. In an interview, Dr Sahu, Senior Medical Officer in Medical and Health Centre, Delhi High Court, and Neelima, homemaker, talk about how the school has helped promote their children’s overall development, the impact of activity-based learning, and more. Edited excerpts:

What encouraged you to enroll your children in Apeejay School, Saket?

Sanat: Since my elder son Swastik was already studying at Apeejay School, Saket, we decided to enroll our daughter Shreyashi too. The school is known to be among the best in South Delhi and provides up-to-the-mark education and other facilities. So, we did not have to think much before getting our kids admitted to this school.

What do you think of the educational environment provided by the school? How has Swastik progressed over the years?

Sanat: It is up to standard. The teachers are very cooperative while the pedagogy is also impressive. Now, Swastik is among the top rankers in his class in academics. He regularly gets opportunities to participate in various inter-school competitions, which has brought about overall personality development.

Neelima: Swastik participates in musical events, art and craft competitions, and more.

Tell us about the online classes.

Neelima: Shreyasi took some time to adjust to the virtual classroom. Once she got used to it, she started enjoying the classes. As a parent who has been observing each and every online class closely, I would say that every teacher has done a commendable job in handling such young children. My daughter is able to follow everything that is taught in class. The interesting activities through which the concepts are explained make it easy for the children to grasp.

Do the teachers interact with your children individually to make them feel more involved in the classroom?

Neelima: Not just with my children, the teachers make sure to interact with every single student in the classroom, which boosts their confidence. We are very satisfied with the school.

How would you compare Swastik’s curriculum in kindergarten with that of Shreyasi?

Neelima: While Swastik was also taught phonics, Shreyasi has been introduced to ‘Jolly Phonics’. This style of learning the sound of alphabets increases their reading capabilities. Shreyashi can now read sentences comfortably. Besides, teachers conduct reading sessions with groups of children, which are also very helpful.

Do teachers keep parents up to date with the developments in class?

Sanat: Since the beginning of the online classes, the interaction between parents and teachers has become more frequent. Whenever we call them for help, they respond very well and provide us with the required solutions.

Neelima: This is true in the case of both of my children.

What are your expectations from Apeejay School, Saket?

Sanat: Apart from academic exposure, I hope that my children continue to get more and more opportunities in other fields too to hone their skills. I also expect the teachers and the management to continue to be as supportive as they have been so far.