‘The teacher-student engagement at this school is amazing’

Choosing the best school for your child in India is a crucial decision that can significantly impact their overall development and future success. Several factors highlight the importance of selecting the right school. The primary purpose of any school is to provide quality education. A good school should have a strong academic curriculum, qualified teachers, and a conducive learning environment. Look for schools that focus on holistic development, including academic, social, and emotional growth.

Beyond academics, extracurricular activities play a vital role in a child’s development. The best schools in India often offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, music, drama, and more. These activities contribute to a well-rounded education and help identify and nurture a child’s talents.

The choice of a school in India is critical because it directly influences a child’s academic, social, and emotional development. Parents should carefully assess various factors to ensure that the selected school aligns with their child’s needs, values, and aspirations.

Then there are parents like Sandhya and her husband Pankaj Aggarwal who besides doing their homework while looking for a school for their children, looked at another aspect – they live in a joint family, and all the children of the house study at Apeejay School.

“Besides the fact that Apeejay School, Model Town is renowned in our city, all the children in our joint family go to this branch. When it was time for my elder one to start her formal education, it was a no-brainer that she too would study here since I was well aware of how good this school is,” Sandhya said, whose two children – Aarvi (class IV) and Svanik (class III) – study at Apeejay School, Model Town.

Excerpts from the interview.

How has Apeejay shaped your kids?

When I reflect on my children’s development, especially my son’s early years when he started school, there was a significant positive transformation. Initially, he spoke very little, but after joining the school, he began to express himself more confidently. Witnessing this boost in confidence was a remarkable sign of progress for my son, and it brought me immense joy.

Can you share some positives you observed in your children’s experiences at APJ?

Each of my children has shown unique strengths at Apeejay. My son’s increased confidence and improved communication skills were standout achievements for him. As for my daughter, she has become remarkably self-dependent, earning praise from her teachers as a gem. I credit this school for nurturing these positive attributes in my children.

Could you elaborate on the teaching methodology?

The teaching methodology stands out for its holistic approach. Teachers are not solely focused on textbooks; they aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the world. In the early years, such as in kindergarten, I was particularly pleased with how teachers engaged the students. They encouraged them to explore topics deeply, fostering confidence in expressing themselves beyond just rote learning.

How do you perceive the importance of the bond between students and teachers in the learning process?

The connection between students and teachers holds immense significance. Children spend a considerable amount of time with their teachers, and the impression teachers leave on them is substantial. Over the years, there have been good teachers who understand each child’s strengths and weaknesses, creating an environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves.

In your view, should parents be more like friends or maintain a more traditional parental role?

I believe it’s a balance; neither being overly strict nor excessively lenient. While being a friend can foster a positive relationship, maintaining some level of parental control is crucial. Children need to have a sense of accountability and a guiding influence. Striking the right balance ensures a healthy development of their personalities.

How do you perceive the shift towards holistic development in education today?

The shift towards holistic development is essential in today’s world. While academic excellence is crucial, it’s equally important to recognize and nurture a child’s talents and strengths. Unlike in the past, where marks were the sole focus, parents now understand the significance of a child’s overall growth and development.

Considering your overall experience, how would you rate the school?

My experience with this school has been very positive, and I would rate it 4.7 out of 5. The slight deduction accounts for the fact that there is always scope for improvement. Overall, I am highly satisfied and pleased with the education my children are receiving here.